DANZIG PROBLEM

Bay of Plenty Times, Volume LXVII, Issue 12801, 24 July 1939, Page 8

DANZIG PROBLEM

GERMAN VIEW UNCONDITIONAL RETURN TO REICH AY AR NOT AY ANTED London, July 21. “We reject a warlike solution of Danzig by 100 per cent,” said the official German spokesman in a special statement: ‘,We maintain out demands for the unconditional ioturn 'of Danzig to the Reich, but Herr Hitler is convinced that this can be achieved peacefully. “Herr Hitler and his Government are determined to achieve Danzig s return. We do not desire to create a crisis as a means of solving the problem, and we definitely do not expect any so-called August ciisis. Referring to Germany’s military measures, he said: ‘‘AVe cannot overlook the possibility of a non-peaceful solution, despite our wishes and intentions. Whatever military measures we have taken or may take will not be a threat but purely a defensive preparation.”

In reply to a question as to how long Germany is willing to wait for a peaceful solution, the spokesman answered: “Not years, but probably months. The German view is that the Postelau incident (the shooting of a Polish guard by a Danziger) is closed.”

The spokesman indicated that Germany expected the Poles ultimately to yield, perhaps agreeing to a general Polo-German settlement, including guarantee of the frontiers.

The Nazis were ■ convinced that when the time came Britain would urge Poland to make concessions. The spokesman added that,he was reflecting, most faithfully, the attitude of Herr Hitler and the Government. Though the belief persists that Britain is bluffing, it is expected that she would go farther than Munich, but would not fight for Danzig. Dr. Ley, leader of the Nazi Labour Front, fresh from Berchtesgaden, said: “The Fuehrer does not think of war, he desires peace and order.” London, July 21. “The Times” Warsaw correspondent states that M. Chodacki, Polish representative in Danzig, has rejected the Danzig Senate’s explanation of the Postelau shooting. He demands punishment of the murderer and reserves action in connection with the Poles arrested in Danzig and the Customs officer on Polish territory at Kartuzy.