Refugees Curbed in Lithuania; Red Cross Given All Relief Powers

The Lithuanian Refugee Commissioner today announced a series of sweeping limitations on the activities of refugees in this country.

Refugees, under the restrictions, are prohibited from becoming members of political parties and other organizations. They may not obtain work or engage in commerce. They are also prohibited from addressing public meetings, collaborating with the local or foreign press, or owning typewriters. The commissioner, however, is authorized to make exceptions in certain cases.

Another decree concentrates refugee relief in Lithuania in the hands of the Lithuanian Red Cross. All organizations and individuals possessing relief funds and goods have been ordered to deliver them within ten days to the Red Cross, together with reports on funds already spent.

Additional money received from abroad must be delivered to the Red Cross within seven days. Foreign relief organizations may appoint representatives to the Red Cross, which will distribute relief either directly or through authorized private organizations.