“A TEMPESTUOUS STATEMENT”

Press, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22518, 28 September 1938, Page 11

“A TEMPESTUOUS STATEMENT”

London Newspaper Comment

GERMANS MAY BE

UNDECEIVED

Forces Opposed To

Violence

(UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION—COPYRIGHT.) (Received September 27, 9.30 p.m.)LONDON, September 27. “The Times,” in a leading article, says: “Herr Hitler’s speech, in a tempestuous and rather offensive statement of a perfectly reasonable case, namely, the right of the Sudetens to unite with the Reich, does not seem absolutely .to close the door to negotiations, though -he said the German part of Czechoslovakia becomes German now and at once. If he carries out his threat of force, the Germans are likely to be sharply undeceived as to his implication that they will find only Dr. Benes against them.

“The speech, however, will have done much to enlighten the’ world about the issues at stake. The first, namely, that of separating the races, has been resolved, but the difference q£ method is due to a complete difference of outlook between Germany and France and Britain. The time limit is too short. “Grave doubts are to be entertained about the future of Czechoslovakia, in spite of Herr Hitler’s announcements about arrangements to include Hungary and Poland when the minority questions are settled.

“Mr Roosevelt’s message appeals to the right-mindedness of every nation determined to see that justice prevails. It can even now prevail without a resort to force.” .

The “Daily Herald” says: “It could not previously be said with certainty that Herr Hitler knew, as he does now, that he could not invade Czechoslovakia without making war against Britain, France, and Russia. He must have known when he spoke last night that Britain, France, and Russia will fight as they are pledged to do. The fight will be against tyranny and against injustice, and will be victorious.” The “News-Chronicle” emphasises the value of Mr Roosevelt’s appeal as proving that American sentiment wholeheartedly supports. international fair play. The newspaper adds that it is regrettable that it was hidden' under the censorship enwrapping the press and radio of unhappy Germany.

“Speech Teeming With Invective” The “Manchester Guardian” says: “Efforts were again made yesterday to stop the tide which is bearing us rapidly towards a war that everyone with a conscience for humanity dreads and detests. There is no comfort to be derived from Herr Hitler’s speech. He suggests no further negotiations, nor does he onen a path leading to peace. His ultimatum is maintained. We should make a good showing if tested. Our resources and adaptability will not fail.”

The “Daily Telegraph” says: “Herr Hitler’s speech, teeming with invective, was the worst possible contribution towards the needful pacification of minds and tempers. The best that can be said is that while it slammed the door, it did not inevitably bolt and bar it. It Carrie's us no further, but the days of grace remain. “It is preposterous to pretend that his scheme bears the slightest resemblance to the British and French plan. Statements such as ‘that his claim against the Czechs would be his last European territorial demand, have been previously completely denied by subsequent events., Nevertheless. he did not entirely burn his boats last night, as there seemed reason to fear. There is still a breathing space, but Berlin must show a new spirit of compromise if it is to be fruitfully used. “This may be the turning point in Herr Hitler’s whole career. The fateful issue before Europe is that France will aid Czechoslovakia if she is attacked, and Britain and Russia will certainly stand by France.”

Dr. Jan Masaryk, Czech Minister in London, said: “Herr Hitler’s speech is so unbelievable, uncultured, and shocking that I am proud of my Government’s decision to stand firm against a mentality which is trying to destroy European culture.”

EVACUATION OF PARIS

PLANS FOR REMOVAL OF GOVERNMENT

(Received September 28, 1.15 a.m.)

PARIS, September 27. All newspapers are reduced to six pages.

The press is unanimous that HenHitler’s speech has still left a pathway to peace, and expresses relief that there is no order for general mobilisation.

This relief is mingled with 'misgivings concerning assurances that Germany is not interested in nonGerman parts of Czechoslovakia. Mr Roosevelt’s message is interpreted as something more than a plea for peace. The Paris correspondent of the “Manchester Guardian” says that French Government departments are feverishly busy evacuating Paris.

It is estimated that 500,000 have already left on their own initiative. Preparations have also been made for transferring the Government to south-western France.

No more than eight or nine hundred thousand are expected to . remain in Paris itself. Banks and businesses have made full arrangements to transfer their