FRANCE TO BRITAIN

Evening Post, Issue 13, 16 January 1936, Page 11

FRANCE TO BRITAIN

FULLEST CO-OPERATION;

EVENT OF ITALIAN ATTACK

FULFILMENT UNDOUBTED

United Press "Association—By Electric Tel*

graph—Copyright,

LONDON, January 15,

The Paris correspondent of "Tbfl Times," pointing out that reports are current that only limited French support would be available in the event of an Italian attack on Britain, emphasises that, on the contrary, the French Government has given the British Government assurances of the fullest co-operation.

The idea that the French fleet would be incapable of immediate intervention arises from a misunderstanding of the position. It is true that mobilisation would be necessary for manning coastal, anti-aircraft, and other essential defences, but the ships themselves would not stand idly by.

Every possible preparation for ail emergency has been completed, and the British Admiralty is fully awar'« of what the French dispositions in such an emergency would be.

The military conversations have ad? mittedly made less progress, but already the French Army's mobilisation plans are known to the British General Staff, apart from questions of detail.

Therefore it can be said:— 1. A pledge has been given. 2. There is no reason to doubt iff fulfilment. 3. Once committed to such measures neither France nor any other country is likely to fight with on« hand tied behind its back.