These - proposals seem to be very much the same
in effect as those already agreed upon by the Japanese and our own delegates. The vessels now proposed to be-retained between 6,000 and 10,000 tons introduce a new ;class, and our maximum figure for the size of the second class of cruisers is reduced from 7,500 to 6,000 tons. The -first opinions upon these proposals that were received from Washington simply reiterated that they could not accepted if Great Britain still claims _ to adapt them to the theory that we have a special position in respect of any class. Has Washington learned nothing, not even that a Conference aimed at limiting armaments might hold a six-inch calibre for guns in better favour than eight inches ? Let us hope that it has and that Thursday's meeting will demonstrate its wisdom. Meanwhile the Japanese delegates are sug- gesting that as an alternative to complete failure, the Conference should agree upon a temporary " holiday'- from naval construction.
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