SAAR PROBLEM

Dominion, Volume 28, Issue 33, 2 November 1934, Page 11

SAAR PROBLEM

Possibilities in Event of Nazi Putsch

FRANCE’S ATTITUDE Entry of Troops “Might Mean War” BERLIN PRESS PROTESTS Responsibility of Britain Discussed By Telegraph.—Frees Assn. —Copyright. (Received November 1, 10 p.m.) London, November 1. Significance is attached to an interview between M. Corbin, French Ambassador in London, and Sir John Simon, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, when the. Ambassador indicated the French view of the steps required to ensure the smooth conduct of the Saar Plebiscite.’ These plans are being considered in detail by the League Council ou November 19. The “Daily Telegraph’s” diplomatic correspondent understands that M. Corbin reasserted France’s determination to carry out her international obligations in the event of trouble developing in the Saar. The correspondent was assured that reports which are more specific in regard to the steps France will take in preparation for this eventuality are without foundation. The Berlin Press is filled with protests against reports that France is preparing to concentrate troops near the frontier for intervention in the Saar in case of a Nazi putsch. A semiofficial source states that Germany has every interest in seeing that the plebiscite is carried out under perfect discipline. The “Deutsche AUgemeine Zeitung” suggests that the entry of French troops into the Saar might mean war. The Paris correspondent of “The Tines” says that though it is realised that France has special responsibilities in the Saar it is also felt that the intervention of France alone, however justified, would lead to disastrous consequences. British troops, even the barest handful, should accompany them.

British objections to such a commit ment are fully realised, but it is urged, apart altogether from the general question of averting a possible casus belli, that the juridical responsibilities of Britain are as great as France’s, and that such a flagrant violation of treaties as a putsch could not pass unchecked. ALL NATIONS AGREE Chaco War Arms Embargo (British Official Wireless.) | Rugby, October 31In answer to a question in the House of Commons the Foreign Secretary, Sir John Simon, said that the international agreement to prevent the supply of arms to- Bolivia and Paraguay, initiated and pressed by his Majesty’s Government, had at last been put into operation. 1 All the arms-manufaeturing countries approached by the League committee who had previously announced their acceptance in principle of the proposed embargo now stated that they took the necessary measures before the end of September without any reservations as regards the execution of current contracts.