ITALY'S REJECTION

Evening Post, Volume CXXIV, Issue 60, 8 September 1937, Page 11

ITALY'S REJECTION

OFFICIAL STATEMENT

ANOTHER EXPECTED

MEDIATION BY BRITAIN

(United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.)

(Received September 8, 9.50 a.m.) ROME, September 7.

It is stated by the Foreign Office that the Russian Note demanding reparations for alleged piracy of Soviet vessels in the Mediterranean has been liquidated by Italy's categorical rejection of it. It is believed that Italy will not refuse to attend the Mediterranean Conference. Officials expect a further Soviet Note, which will necessitate British mediation before the conference.

Many Italian newspapers state that Italy does not intend to take "Russia's1 absurd Note" too seriously, but fears are expressed elsewhere that there will be complications if Moscow counter-replies.

(Received September 8, 12.50 p.m.) LONDON, September 7.

The "Daily Telegraph's" Rome correspodent says: "The Prime Minister (Signor Mussolini) is considering whether Moscow will follow up the Note with something else. It is understood that Italy's presence at the conference will depend upon any development in this direction." Russian quarters are annoyed because Italy immediately announced the .reception and rejection of the Soviet demands, thereby preventing Moscow from making the first announcement.