BRITAIN AND FRANCE.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 59, Issue 23, 7 November 1938, Page 5

BRITAIN AND FRANCE.

. MR CHAMBERLAIN’S VISIT. I REAFFIRMING FRIENDSHIP. (United Press Association —Copyright.) LONDON, November 4. The morning newspapers agree with reports of Paris opinion of the visit of Mr Chamberlain and Lord Halifax to Paris on November 23 as above all a reaffirmation of French and British friendship, but comment in more responsible ‘organs emphasises the social character of the visit as indicated by the presence of Mrs Chamberlain and Lady Halifax, and eschews speculative political interpretations which appear in the popular press.

The diplomatic correspondent of the “Times” says that while the invitation from France was in the first place one of courtesy and not political it would be absurd to assume there would not be political conversations even if they were only of an informal character. In London it has been clearly realised during the last few weeks with, the disposal of the Czechoslovakian crisis and signature of the Munich agreement that there has been a marked turning point in the relations of Britain with the rest of Europe and that the end of the French alliance with Czechoslovakia could not fail to make a change even more decisive for France. Collaboration between Britain and France lias certainly not lost importance .

The diplomatic correspondent of the “Daily Telegraph” suggests that the visit will be devoted largely to social engagements, hut that the Premier in going to Paris is also adhering to his belief in the value of direct contact with foreign statesmen, and since the closest possible co-operation with Franco remains an axiom of British foreign policy this writer expresses his belief that Dir Chamberlpin will discuss with French Ministers his proposals for European appeasement. The “Daily Mail” says that Mr Chamberlain will certainly discuss colonies when in Paris. It adds that, after his visit to Paris, Mr Chamberlain will probably meet Signor Mussolini. Clearly Mr Chamberlain is intent on hurrying the discussions leading to a Four-Power Conference. —British Official Wireless.