AXIS PLANS UPSET

Evening Star, Issue 23723, 2 November 1940, Page 12

AXIS PLANS UPSET

GREEK RESISTANCE AND BRITISH AID GERMANY'S PART IN CAMPAIGN STRATEGIC POINTS NOW AVAILABLE TO ALLIES (British Official Wireleea.) RUGBY, October 31. The high morale of the Greek troops, who are stoutly resisting the Italians’ continuous advance, has been enhanced by the prompt action of the British Government in implementing its undertaking to give all possible assistance. Immediate measures include the mining by the British Fleet of areas in Greek waters, including the Gulfs of Petras and Corinth, guarding the approaches to the capital. A striking contrast between Italian caution and the German methods when dealing with small nations in the north is noted here, and it is somewhat ironically remarked that “ it resembles the hesitant approach of Graziani rather than the blitzkrieg technique favoured by Italy’s ally.” Along the whole front the operations are, in fact, mere outpost affairs. Germany’s part in the attack on Greece is apparently at present confined to attempts to undermine confidence, ..nd reports, which are evidently inspired by Berlin, spare no effort in suggesting that the Greeks are demoralised and on the point of collapse. The Greeks are unlikely to be impressed with these gross misrepresentations, and information reaching London makes it clear that they are completely untrue. It is indeed probable that never before have the Greek Government and people been more united, and there are indeed many indications that the Axis Powers have been surprised, and maybe their plans have gone awry, owing to the unexpected steadfastness of the Greeks. GERMANY AS " MEDIATOR.” Examining the suggestion that Germany might be willing to mediate between Italy and Greece, ‘ The Times ' says: “ it is quite possible that mediation may have been produced at Florence simultaneously with aggression, and the real object of the present attack is to prepare the way for a diplomatic compromise, arranged by Hitler as arbitrator, whereby Italy could be bought off by the concession of strategic points to serve the immediate purpose of Axis plans for the winter campaign. Whether Mussolini’s plans are large or small, the boldest reply is likely to bo the best. If he promised himself quick profit with a limited liability, we have the chance to show him that he cannot escape from his quarrel so lightly as he entered it, and show the gallant Greek people that they are right to trust in armed resistance rather than the diplomatic offices of a self-nominated arbitrator. If operations on a grand ■scale arc afoot, this is the moment to strike, and strike hard. " The inclusion of Greece anj her islands upon the war map opens up a series of critical strategic points where superior sea power should yield a decisive advantage.” Y.M.C.A. ANNIVERSARY MR CHURCHILL’S MESSAGE (British Official Wireless.) RUGBY, November 1. (Received November 2( at 11.59 a.in.) On the occasion of the celebration of Founders’ Day by 2,000,000 members of I, Young Men’s Christian Association branches in America on October 11. Mr Churchill sent a message to Mr John Manley, general secretary of the National Council of the Y.M.C.A., expressing great pleasure “in joining with you to honour the memory of George Williams, who 96 years ago in St. Paul’s Churchyard, in the very heart of London, founded a world-wide institution for the protection and development of those Christian ideals which are held sacred wherever the cause of freedom prevails.” TOWER OF LONDON OPEN TO OVERSEAS SERVICEMEN (British Official Wireless.) RUGBY, November 1. (Received November 2, at 11.35 a.m.) Although the Tower of London is closed to the general public, arrangements have been made to ensure that overseas servicemen have ample opportunity to visit the historic building. JAPANESE NAVY NEW VESSEL LAUNCHED TOKIO, November 1. The navy announced that the warship Tanikaze had been launched at Osaka. Its category was not disclosed. IDENTIFIED AS DESTROYER TOKIO, November 1. (Received November 2, at 12.30 p.m.) The warship Tanikaze, which was launched at Osaka, is a destroyer.