ANGLO-FRENCH PROPOSALS

Press, Volume LXXI, Issue 21402, 19 February 1935, Page 11

ANGLO-FRENCH PROPOSALS

♦ CRITICISM OF GERMAN REPLY "VAGUE AND NOT PRECISE" (r.PJTISH OFFICIAL WIRELESS.) (Received February 18, 5.5 p.m.) RUGBY, February 16. Although the conciliatory tone of the German reply to the February 3 communique is fully recognised, the newspapers generally are critical of its substance which, in certain respects, is regarded as vague and not precise. It is emphasised in most newspapers that the projected air convention to which the German Government devotes most attention belongs essentially to the regional security system of western Europe, while a general settlement of regional systems was considered in the Anglo-French conversations-, to be no less essential elsewhere in Europe. • In reference to the suggestion that the British Government should enter into a direct exchange of views with the German Government on the subject of an air convention, the newspapers point out that in any case there must first be the consultation with the French Government which is provided for in the communique. These consultations will probably be conducted through the ordinary diplomatic channels.

ANGLO-GERMAN DISCUSSIONS FRENCH TO PLACE NO OBSTACLES IN WAY (Received February 19, 12.20 a.m.) LONDON, February 18. The diplomatic correspondent of the "Daily Telegraph" learns that the French Government will place no obstacle in the way of direct Anglo-German conversations on the proposed air pact, as they genuinely desire an all-round agreement with Germany. , RUSSIAN OPINION PACT WITHOUT GERMANY FORESEEN MOSCOW, February 17. Political circles think that the German reply will improve relations between Russia and France, and may lead to the conclusion of an eastern pact without German participation. "Pravda" sees the likelihood of the reply starting a hidden AngloFrench struggle. It adds: "Germany is suffering from megalomania and •seeks to create an impression that the world's fate depends on her decision. She is greatly mistaken in this. The European peoples will find a means otherwise of guaranteeing their safety."