United States

Mr. Hughes and the Disarmament Conference

Speaking yesterday in Cincinnati, Mr. Hughes stated that the United States would be represented at the next Disarmament Conference; the Republican Party, he said, intended to participate in international affairs, but without abdicating the rights of the country.

In this connection, the Secretary of State pointed out that the attitude of the Democratic Party was illogical because, on the one hand, that party attacked the Administration for its refusal to join the League of Nations, and on the other hand, the Democrats' program had avoided advocating an immediate decision in that direction, declaring itself in favor of a popular referendum on the question of American participation in the League.

As regards the criticisms made about unofficial representatives at the conferences, Mr. Hughes explained that it was only a question, in this way, of not being compromised in European affairs and, at the same time, of having as complete an American representation as necessary.

Thus, he added, we have preserved our independence by maintaining our power of assistance in matters other than those which directly concern us... We have not gone forward with vain declarations and useless demands, but have really cooperated, in accordance with the generous aspirations of our people, by adapting our practical methods to the exigencies of the situation. We have not remained isolated, but we have avoided engagements, which are repugnant to American feelings.