Developments

In Spain. Foreign Minister Yanguas declared at Madrid last week: "Inasmuch as we have abandoned hope of a permanent** place on the league council, we will not send a delegation to the September meeting of the league assembly."

Wilsonian Ideals. At Rio de Janeiro widespread satisfaction was expressed at the action of Brazil in serving notice of withdrawal upon the League (TIME, June 21). President-elect Luis Jerne of Brazil who will succeed President Bamardes next October refused to comment, but Acting President of the Chamber Committee of Foreign affairs said last week: "Brazil's action means closer relations with the American republics, especially the United States. It became inevitable when it was seen that Latin America would not obtain a seat in the League Council. Woodrow Wilson's peace ideals are our ideals, but as a nation we cannot see how they can be attained by League membership."

Syrian Mandate. The League of Nations Mandates Commission approved last week the report of French High Commissioner to Syria Henry de Jouvenel, upon the much criticized French administration of Syria as a League mandate (TIME, April 28, 1923 et seq.).

Syrian and Druse representatives, unofficially present, protested so violently against Senator de Jouvenel's report that they were expelled from the session, departed vociferously calling upon Heaven to witness the perfidy of the French.

Speaking in straightforward fashion, M. de Jouvenel described the bombardment of Damascus (TIME, Nov. 9) as a police necessity, characterized the savage Druse tribesmen as "inveterate trouble makers." Even as he spoke French machine guns were crackling in Syria. More than 100 Druses were slain during "mopping up" operations by French troops last week.

Hair Split. The military committee of the Preparatory Disarmament Commission (TIME, May 30 et seq.) decided by a majority vote that "theoretical limitation of armaments" may properly be discussed with reference to: 1) Land, sea; and air effectives. 2) Appropriations for armaments. 3) Legislation affecting the length of voluntary or compulsory military service.

The Committee expressed its intention of considering "practical limitation of armaments" in the immediate future.

** Spain retains her nonpermanent seat and has not given notice of withdrawal from the League, but ostentatiously registered contempt for the Council by sending a mere diplomatic underling to occupy the Spanish nonpermanent seat during the Council sessions a fortnight ago. (TIME, June 21).