SLOW ADVANCES EXPECTED

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 61, Issue 45, 3 December 1940, Page 5

SLOW ADVANCES EXPECTED

(United Press Association—Copyright} (Received This Day, 11.30 a.m.) LONDON, December 2. The Athens correspondent of the Associated Press reports that the Greeks captured 5000 Italians on the northern front. Their surrender is reported to have signalled the general retreat of other Italian forces in the same area, leaving a huge gap in the Italian centre.

The Greek ipilitary authorities forbid mention of the spot at which the Italian line is broken.

The Exchange’s correspondent at Moscopolye says that heavy snow and a gale have slowed down the Greek advance, but the initiative is still in their hands. The latest victory permitted the establishment of a new line in the extreme north.

It is authoritatively stated in London that further Greek advances must now be expected to be. slower. The Greeks cannot expect to sweep on relentlessly straight through Albania. It the Greeks advance further they will reach the flat coastal plans, where the Italians’ superior equipment, particularly tanks, will be more advantageous than in the mountains.

The Greek pursuit prevents the Italians driven from Pogradetz'from taking up new defence positions, and well-armed bands of Albanian rebels threaten them in the rear near Elbasan. These rebels are reported to be commanded by a supporter of ex-King Zog