Page:The Cuba review (IA cubareview18muns).pdf/11



Among the questions treated by President Menocal in his message to the new session of congress were the recommendation that the navy acquire several new ships in order that the coasts be properly guarded and a stop put to clandestine immigration.

Obligatory vaccination, as a means of preventing smallpox epidemics, was urged.

To enable the Cuban sugar industry to compete with the beet sugar industry of Europe, the President recommended the passing of a law that would favor the hacendados who installed refineries.

The appropriation of fourteen million dollars was also recommended for the Department of Public Works, in order that the roads of the country might be put in proper repair and new ones constructed.

Placido M, Dominguez, former Secretary of the Cuban Legation in London, has been appointed Consul of Cuba in Kobe, Japan. Mr. Dominguez has been in the diplomatic service for seventeen years.

An appropriation of $440,000 for the construction of sewers and the paying of streets in Santa Clara has been approved by the House of Representatives.

A farewell reception to the Honorable William E. Gonzales, United States Minister to Cuba, was given jointly by the American and Country Clubs of Havana on the afternoon of November 22d. The American Club and the Country Club united on the occasion to express their respect and esteem for Mr. Gonzales and it was a gathering such as has not been seen in Havana before. President Menocal, the Members of his cabinet, the diplomatic corps and many distinguished members of Cuban society were present, and the regret felt by all on the eve of losing a faithful diplomat was genuine.

Mr. Gonzales was recently appointed first ambassador from the United States to Peru.

Approval of the treaty of peace with Germany was unanimously voted by the Cuban Senate on December 17th.

The treaty cannot be brought before the House before Jan, 19, when the Cuban Congress will reconvene following the Christmas holidays. Strong opposition is expected in the House, where a number of Representatives, especially Liberals, oppose consideration of the treaty until final action is taken on it by the United States Senate.