NO AXIS DEMAND.

Auckland Star, Volume LXX, Issue 197, 22 August 1939, Page 9

NO AXIS DEMAND.

HITLER REBUFFED. ,

A Strong Hungary Essential

In Europe.

MINISTER'S STATEMENT,

tJnited Press Association.—Copyright.

(Received 2 p.m.)

BUDAPEST, August 21

The Hungarian Foreign Minister, Count Csaky, arrived unexpectedly at Budapest from Graz, reporting immediately to the Prime Minister, Count Paul Telek, and the Cabinet.

He declared that an independent and strong Hungary is essential to the political balance of Europe, and emphasised that neither in Germany nor in Italy was anything demanded from her.

Hungary has refused Herr Hitler's demand that she should allow German troops to cross her frontiers and facilitate the free passage of German troops against Poland and Rumania in the event of war, states the "Daily Express."

It has been ascertained further, the paper asserts, that Herr Hitler asked Count Csaky, the Hungarian Foreign Minister, for close economic and military co-operation, and said he wanted a decision quickly. A little over a week ago Signor Mussolini told Count Csaky he would do his best for Hungarian independence, but when Count Csaky flew to Koine last Friday, he found a sharp change in 11 Duce's attitude.

Count Csaky, the "Daily Express" continues, vainly pleaded * for three hours. Signor Mussolini advised him to accept at least the bulk of HenHitler's demands, otherwise Italy would disinterest herself in Hungary's affairs.

When County Csaky returns to Budapest shortly. stated an earlier message, a proclamation of "benevolent neutrality to Germany" will be issued. The declaration will show willingness to place agricultural products at Germany's disposal, but will refuse to be bound by any military commitments.

The Budapest journal "Xemetzo," partially sheds light 011 Count Csaky's journeying, saying that Germany, realising Hungary is indispensable for her push to the east, wants to attach her politically, militarily and economically, leaving an outward form of independence.

The paper adds: "Hungarians have 110 illusions about the outcome of such an attachment, so the Regent. Admiral Horthy, is doing his utmost to combat German pressure.

"Hungary is very loth to be drawn into a war against her friend Poland. In the fateful hours approaching, Hungary desires neutrality, but realises that Hungarian integrity cannot be preserved without Poland's independence."