GERMANY REFUSES TO WITHDRAW TROOPS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVII, Issue 72, 25 March 1936, Page 7

GERMANY REFUSES TO WITHDRAW TROOPS.

reply to powers.

Negotiations Only on Terms Of Equality. DELAY PENDING ELECTIONS. United Press Association.—Copyright. (Received 1.30 p.m.) LONDON, March 24. Germany's reply to the Locarno Powers' White Paper, which Herr von Ribbentrop handed to Mr. Eden, is an interim statement refusing to withdraw troops from the Rhineland and to negotiate except on terms of equality, also declining further elucidation pending the German elections. The memorandum adds that thereafter Germany will give a detailed definition of her attitude and make positive proposals to Britain. The reply also emphasises that Germany will adhere to her peace proposals, for which the restoration of her sovereignty was a . proper basis. It declares that the White Paper is based on a new discrimination against a great nation and Germany's equality. If these are accepted another humiliation would be thrust upon Germans. Following the restoration of the Reich and the complete sovereignty of the German Government, the people earnestly desire to make a great contribution to European peace, but all demands would be useless in securing improvement in European social conditions if the people were not gfven the feeling of an unconditional, lasting security. The German Government attaches more weight to such a peace, as one of the safest foundations of progressive welfare; than to any help obtainable from an economic conference. Uncertainties in France. The French Ambassador, M. Corbin, cabled the Foreign Office, after which it was officially stated that M. Corbin had not said France would not discuss the German counter-proposals. "The Times" Paris correspondent says that although the uncertainties of the French election necessarily affect M. Flandin's plans, his departure for his constituency, whence he is not expected to return before the week-end, is also a gesture concerning the White Paper, which the French still maintain must be taken ,in its entirety. The British view that it can be modified to suit German exigencies has caused bitter disappointment and some indignation. It is pointed out that France's dropping of insistence on the partial withdrawal of German troops from the Rhineland constituted very substantial concession. If France accepted the British suggestion of an international-force, it was on the understanding that Britain would stand by her own proposals. Although it is believed that the British proposals are less acceptable to Germany than a symbolic withdrawal, there are strong hints that if Germany does not make at least symbolic amends France will refuse to continue the present 'conversations. Otherwise there will be no end of concessions extracted from France because Germany feels sufficiently strong to impose her will on Europe. Growing Impatience. "The Times" Paris correspondent further pointed out that if Herr Hitler feels able to take time France believes the justice of her case entitles her equally to prolonged consideration of German suggestions, especially as the British undertaking regarding general Staff discussions fully protects France against German delays. It is notable that behind the official reserve there is growing impatience with a policy apparently offering unlimited advantages for German truculence. Many quarters feel that something must be done to break down the German monopoly of the word "no."