THE NEXT WAR

Evening Star, Issue 19712, 12 November 1927, Page 2

THE NEXT WAR

HORRORS VISUALISED. LONDON, November 4. Dantc-csque horrors in tbe next war are vividly anticipated by tbo War 01lico in a pamphlet entitled ‘ Defence Against Gas.’ This petrifying document coldly relates, among other things,, bow aeroplanes will spray mustard' gas “ like i'alling rain.” Aircraft bombs, it adds, will contain a high percentage of poison gas, and “ the most favorable conditions tor tbe use of gas will occur at night and earl,' in the morning, when strong winds ami ascending air currents arc usually absent.” Tbe pamphlet also remarks that in these conditions “ there is tbe possibility of effecting a surprise on sleeping men.” Lung irritants will attack tbo breathing passages, and eye irritants will cause so profuse a flow of tears that it will bo impossible for the victim to see. Then, to ensure tbe casualties are completely out of action, skin irritants will cause “ deep and extensive blisters.” In an urbane preface to this pleasant description the Army Council states: “The British Government at the outbreak of hostilities will endeavor to obtain from the enemy Governments an undertaking that gas shall not be used. “In the event of failure, His Majesty’s Government will bo free,to take such action as the circumstances ■ demand.”