EXAGGERATED CLAIMS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 60, Issue 251, 31 July 1940, Page 5

EXAGGERATED CLAIMS.

BOLSTERING UP NAZI MORALE.

EFFECT OF GREAT AIR LOSS,

(Received This Day, 10.15 a.m.) LONDON, July 30

Commenting on the statement in the German High Command communique that only three raiding aeroplanes were brought down in the raid on Dover yesterday while 12 Spitfires and three Hurricanes were shot down, authoritative quarters say it is becoming increasingly clear that Germany’s exaggerated air claims are intended to bolster up not only the civilian morale but also that of the German pilots. The speedy loss of 17 out of 80 ’planes within half an hour must have dealt a serious blow to the nerve of the German pilots engaged in the raid on Dover yesterday, during which only one British ’plane was lost.

This is borne out by the recent revelation by a captured enemy airman that German pilots have demanded the provision of Red Cross ’planes to pick them up if they are shot down. As has been announced by the British Government those Red Cross ’planes do not confine themselves to the legitimate work of rescue which, in fact, is unnecessary because it is; already adequately performed by tlio Royal Air Force working in conjunction with, both the Navy and any merchant ships in the vicinity.—British Official Wireless.