AT STRIA'S APPEAL TO LEAGUE

Press, Volume LXX, Issue 21090, 15 February 1934, Page 9

AT STRIA'S APPEAL TO LEAGUE

<> IiKITISH KLPI'ORT OF I'RIM'il'LK NO COMMENT ON < 'ASIC RUGBY. February 13. In the House of Commons. Sir John Simon (Secretary of Slate for Foreign Affairs) read the following aide-memoire, which he had handed to the Austrian Minister in London alter receiving a copy of the documents un which Austria proposes to base her appeal to the League of Nations against German lnterierenee in Austria "The British Governineiu has publicly stated it does not seel: to discourage Austria m bringing her a.ppeal. Austria's integrity and independence are an object of British policy, and while the Government ha., no intention of interfering in the internal affairs of another country, it fully recognise.: Austria's right to demand that there should be no interference in her internal affairs from any other quarter. On cnterlainin'g Austria's appeal, the council of Ihe league would presumable endeavour to ascertain what Germany may ha<'e h> say concerning Hie facts alleged before pursuing its recommendations. This Government, therefore, flunks the proper course is not to pronounce a view on the Austrian material in advance of iis consideration by the council." On being asked if and when the league would discuss Austria's difficulties, Sir John said he believed that 1 hough Austria had decided in principle in present the appeal, h was led !o Dr. Dolltuss to decide when it would be done. As soon as the appeal was presented, I here would be a special meeting of the league council.

ANXJKTY IN KKANCK I'l.Alf. (OK INTERNATIONAL EFFECTS LONDON. February IT The Pans correspondent of "The Time:-;" says Austria's appeal lo the league crunks at a most embarrassing momeni. It is hoped in some quarters that Dr. Doilluss will defer action until the situation is cleared, but events may move too rapidly tor him, in which ease French sympathy probably will lead to participation in any action by the league powers. Senator Berenger considers thai it Dr. Doiifuss remains master of Hie situation, lie can immediately inform the league council, which must meet without delay to take necessary measures, but if the rising; swamps him the position will be aggravated. Great Britain. France, and Italy must protect Vienna instantly with aii international ton;.:, if necessary, otherwise it spells the finish of the league and the beginning of war in Europe. "L-j Temps" declares the situation demands the greatest vigilance in Rome. Paris, and London.