21 FEBRUARY 1925, Page 2

In France M. Herriot is immersed in financial problems. The

franc has begun to slide again and is once more past the ninety mark. On the other hand, there seems to be complete agreement between all parties that- in no circumstances can a larger revenue be raised. Indeed M. Herriot • has consented to abolish the one measure which gave the Government a hold on people's real incomes and therefore made an income tax to some extent a reality. The Frenchman's favourite obsession about secrecy in his private affairs has once more -con- quered. M. Herriot is appealing for a union sacree to meet financial difficulties, and this is interpreted in some quarters as another step in his movement towards the Right. But it is not very apparent how party unity will help to balance the Budget.