THE NAZI MATCH

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 56, Issue 42, 30 November 1935, Page 5

THE NAZI MATCH

NO GOVERNMENT INTERFERENCE GERMAN OFFICIALS’ WARNING. (United Press Association —Copyright) This Day, 11.40 a.m.) LONDON, November 29. The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Sir John Simon) sent a letter to Sir Walter Citrine (general secretary of the Trades ‘Union Congress), as follows • “I am prepared to receive a deputation from the Trade Union Congress to discuss the Nazi football match, but I do not think that the Government interference is required. The fixture follows a number of other . international matches, for which Government approval was neither sought nor required. I am sure that trade unions will agree that the introduction of political feeling into a sporting contest is not desirable. The match has no political significance." The Nazis chartered a 35,00.0-ton liner, 19 special trains, and eight cross-Channel steamers. It will he the largest influx of foreigners London has experienced. The “Evening Standard” understands that the German Ambassador called at the Foreign Office-and explained that Herr Hitler favoured the match, believing it would contribute to good feeling between England and Germany. In view of the controversy, he was now prepared to call off the fixture if the British authorities so desired. . Herr Linnemann, the Nazi iootball dictator, in a broadcast warning last night to Germany’s 10,000 fans who will attend the match, warned them not to . sing patriotic songs, as many countries regarded community singing of such songs provocative. NO SWASTIKAS TO BE WORN. “WILL BEHAVE LIKE GUESTS.” BERLIN, November 29. Replying to .Labour criticism in Britain, an official of the German Football Association says it is a rule of the party that insignia badges are not worn abroad. Hence the swastika will not be seen when supporters of the German team visit London. “They will behave like guests of a great sporting nation,” he said. A message received yesterday stated, “Drawing attention to the risk of disturbance if Nazi football supporters, as arranged, hold a procession in London in motor coaches decorated with the swastika, the council of the Trades Union Congress has sent a letter to the Home Secretary asking that the international matqh against Germany be banned.”