DECISION IN 1942

Evening Post, Volume CXXXIII, Issue 43, 20 February 1942, Page 5

DECISION IN 1942

Ail-Out German Drive

(Rec. 9 a.m.) ZURICH, Feb. 18.

In a message from Berlin, the "Dienst aus Deutschland" states that the High Command is determined to reach a final decision in 1942, and that therefore industry and trade are at present in a state of complete reorganisation to enable withdrawal for military purposes only. Germany and Finland, it is declared, have mobilised their entire man-power, in contrast with all the other European countries and Britain and America.-

months from November to the end of last month the Navy, with the help of the Air Force, destroyed 148,000 tons of enemy merchant ships and warships on the supply routes to Libya.

"In spite of the strain upon us of a general war at sea," Mr. Alexander went on, "it is a fact that Navy and merchant ships have been able to do much to carry urgently-needed tanks, aeroplanes, and equipment through the winter of storm, ice, and darkness into an Arctic port. One cannot but feel that the arrival in Russia of so much equipment has already played a part in the plans the Russian General Staff was able to make."

Referring to the loss of the Prince of Wales and the Repulse, Mr. Alexander said: "I can imagine what a storm of criticism would have been launched if these ships had stayed in harbour.

"I would like to say to those who have been in the thick of the conflict, with all its bitter fighting and hardships, 'Well done, and thank you for your gallant work. Be assured our spirit is that, come what may, we will not cease from the strife till your deliverance is secured,'" he said in conclusion. "And to those of our brethren in the Allied forces and populations who are now either fighting or preparing to fight: 'Hold the fort, for we are coming.' " —B.O. W.