FRENCH NOTE ON SPAIN

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24814, 2 March 1946, Page 7

FRENCH NOTE ON SPAIN

Action By UNO Suggested

FRANCO “DANGER TO PEACE” (N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) (Rec. 9.30 p.m.) LONDON, March 1. France considers the Franco regime in Spain a danger to peace. This is emphasised in a Note handed by France to the British, American, and Russian Ambassadors in Paris, says the “Daily Telegraph’s” Paris correspondent. The Note says General Franco has taken up a dangerous attitude in concentrating troops and ordering the exe? cution of political opponents without reference to or consideration of jus? tice. This conduct, it is stated, imperils peace and international security. The Note invokes the Yalta Declaration on steps to be taken to enable European peoples to destroy the last vestiges of Fascism and calls for its implementation. The Note asks the three Governments whether they are prepared to join France in bringing the matter before the Security Coun? cil. In Washjngtop yesterday, the American State Department reported that the French Government had accepted “in principle” American proposals that Britain, France, and the United States should issue a joint declaration deoloring the Franco regime, - promising recognition to a new Spanish Government, and affirming that the changing of the Spanish Government 'is a matter for the Spanish people. Britain has not yet replied but American diplomatic officials closely in touch with the situation said Britain had also decided to accept the proposals. Broadening of Giral Government The Spanish Republican Government in exile has announced that discussions are going on to broaden its basis. Leaders of the Republican Government are said to be ready to break from their previous uncompromising attitude and adopt a more realistic policy. The Prime Minister of the Republican Government (Senor Jose Giral) said thaX his Government was ready to take over power in Spain immediately. “After the failure of intrigues in favour of the restoration of the monarchy, and with an awakening world conscience about the assassinations of Cristino Garcia and his comrades, only the Government of the republic must take over power.” Senor Giral is to meet the French Foreign Minister (M. Bidault). This is the first time that a meeting has taken place between Senor Giral and M. Bidault since Senor Giral arrived in Paris.