In the Reichstag on Tuesday Prince Billow made a statement
on foreign affairs. Speaking of Morocco, he said, as reported by the Berlin correspondent of the Times :—" The French Government cannot reproach us with having failed to recognise these circumstances [the difficulties caused by the dynastic dispute in Morocco] or with having interpreted the Algeciras Act in a petty or narrow spirit. Nor shall we do this in the future, but we expect that for her part France will likewise recognise and observe the Convention in a pacific and friendly manner." We may note here the remarks made by the Foreign Secre- tary, Herr von Scholl, on the same subject later in the debate. He described .Morocco as a "sore spot" for France, • but pointed to the difference of tone in the relations between Germany and France three. years ago and now. "It has hitherto been impossible," he said, "to prove that there has been any distinct infringement of the Algeciras Act by France.
We must abide by the declarations of the French Republic, and must entertain no doubt with regard to its sincerity." He went on to make the suggestive statement that parallel to the Act of Algeciras there remained room for independent action by Powers which saw their interests flagrantly violated.
