RADIO PROPAGANDA.

Auckland Star, Volume LXV, Issue 143, 19 June 1934, Page 6

RADIO PROPAGANDA.

Another example of the interdependence of the modern world is afforded by the use of radio for international propaganda, and the protest against such use by the Broadcasting Union. It is an accepted maxim of international relations that one sovereign State may not interfere in the domestic affairs of another sovereign State. Germany, however, disregarded this accepted principle when the Nazis started radio broadcasts reflecting on the politics of the Austrian Chancellor and vilifying the Austrian Government. The Nazis used the air to work against Austria from across the frontier, both through broadcast speeches and through • the scattering of manifestoes by aeroplanes flying over Austrian territory. Dr. Dollfuss protested against what he called these "underground" methods of working, and representations were also made to the German Government by the Governments of Great Britain, Trance and Italy, but these failed to bring about any improvement. The Austrian Broadcasting Company made U protest to the Broadcasting Union, but the Union could do nothing, as Germany refused to admit any breach of tho customary law of international ! comity. It is difficult to see what can be done to prevent improper use of radio unless 1 there is some international convention.