VARIOUS REACTIONS

Evening Post, Volume CXXVII, Issue 105, 6 May 1939, Page 9

VARIOUS REACTIONS

BERLIN IMPRESSION

POLAND CLIMBED

DOWN

MORE TALK OF ABSORPTION

(Received May 6, 11 a.m.)

LONDON, May 5,

Whitehall welcomes Colonel Beck's speech for its firm tone. While it is reasonable and conciliatory, it places the facts of the situation in their true perspective. Reuters' correspondent in "Berlin says that the impression in unofficial quarters is that Poland has climbed down even farther than Germany expected, resulting in the immediate revival t)f talk that Germany will soon absorb Danzig. Herr Hitler is at Berchtesgaden discussing the speech with the Foreign Minister, Herr yon Ribbentrop, and Herr Forster, Nazi leader in Danzig, and Herr Greiser, President of the Danzig Senate.

Another message from Berlin states that a sharp reply from Germany to Colonel Beck's speech is likely, but no

immediate action towards Danzig. Herr Hitler is expected to increase his demands, but Colonel Beck's clear warning that Poland will not suffer her vital interests to be threatened is noted.

"Moderate and.statesmanlike" is the French view of the speech. It is hoped Germany will accept the invitation for an amicable settlement of the Danzig

question,

The reaction to the speech is that it has not clarified the situation.

"Far from conciliatory" is the Italian description of the speech. Official circles are disappointed that Colonel Beck turned down the German frontier guarantee, and declare that they are confident Herr Hitler would honour it.