Czech Cabinet Answers Powers

Auckland Star, Volume LXIX, Issue LXIX, 21 September 1938, Page 11

Czech Cabinet Answers Powers

CONCILIATORY TONE

PUBLIC OPINION STILL AGAINST PEACE PLAN

GUESSING DEPRECATED

(United Preei Association.— Copyright.—R ec . 11.30 a.m.) LONDON, September 20

»k F U Czec . ho » lova l kia Government has communicated to f»k •? • j t,sl ? lvlinisters Prague a Note which sets forth ,ts attitude on the Franco-British proposals. Its attitude makes possible further diplomatic negotiations in the spirit of conciliation which the Czech Government has always shown. A Government announcement states that the decision will be based on the result of diplomatic negotiations now proceeding with all friendly states, especially with Britain and France, dealing not only with minorities, but aimed to solve the entire Luropean crisis. The Government's decision would protect the nation s life interests, also interests of various national groups. An official broadcast stated: "In regard to the contents of the Note to France and Britain, it is learned that the Czechs ask them to weigh carefully the proposals regarding the cession of frontier regions to Germany. The Government explains its attitude and its objections to certain points of the Franco-British proposals.'

The Exchange" Prague representative says unconfirmed reports state that the Note suggests that the matter be decided under a treaty of arbitration concluded between Czechoslovakia and Germany as part of the Locarno Treaty, which was reaffirmed by Germany on reoccupation of the Rhineland.

This would mean that the Czechs wish to submit to any of the following bodies mentioned in the treaty: (1) The International Committee of Arbitration at The Hague. (2) A mixed commission consisting of one German, one Czech and three neutrals. (3) The Permanent Arbitration Commission.

It is authoritatively stated that the French and British Ministers in Prague were instructed to call on the Czech Foreign Minister, Dr. Krofta, and urge his acceptance of the FrancoBritish proposals in view of the urgency of the situation.

Universal opinion, says the "Daily Telegraph" Prague correspondent, is that the Czechs will not accept the plan as it stands. Public opinion is so strongly opposed to it that it is not imaginable for it to be neglected by the Government.

The Czech Legation at London informed Reuter's that the Minister communicated with Prague at noon and was informed that the Government had not reached a decision. Anticipations thereanent were premature and harmful in an already difficult situation.