BRITISH POLICY

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 104, 27 January 1938, Page 13

BRITISH POLICY

Incorrect Reports By Germany & Italy? ULTERIOR MOTIVE Reform Of League Not Thought Urgent (Received January 27, 1.5 a.m.) London, January 26. “There is no foundation whatever for the reports and rumours that Britain is on the eve of making advances to Germany,” declares the diplomatic correspondent of the “Manchester Guardian.” “Some of these reports are undoubtedly of German origin with the aim of raising German credit, in which they are sometimes successful, as is seen from the movement of the money market. They are also designed to weaken the growing movement toward political and economic collaboration of the smaller eastern and middle European powers. . . “Pressure in favour of waiving Britain’s indirect interests in Central and East Europe is both strong and persistent. Lord Halifax’s visit to Berlin and Sir Robert Vansittart’s changed status are both consequences thereof, but so far British foreign policy is unchanged. , , “Similarly, there is do fundamental change in Britain’s attitude toward Abyssinia. The Government is reluctant to take the Initiative in recognising Italy’s conquest, as it would be represented throughout the East as a great Italian victory over Britain. “Reports that Britain considers League reform urgent are also mostly traceable to Italo-German sources. The Government considers it inopportune to raise the issue at the moment. The present structure is good enough for practical purposes, but. Italy and Germany have an interest in representing Britain as dissatisfied, as part of their campaign to draw the small Powers from the League. “Other reports'of impending British overtures toward Italy have a better foundation, as the Government desires better relations, but no advance will be made until Italy gives evidence that talks promise some concrete results and advantages t<> Britain.