THE BLIGHT OF FASCISM.

Evening Star, Issue 24297, 11 September 1942, Page 2

THE BLIGHT OF FASCISM.

There can be no doubt that the people of Italy are in a, very unhappy pljght. The idea formerly held that the country had been saved by Fascism has given way iu the minds of many Italians to tho belief that it has been wrecked by Fascism. slr H. L. Matthews, a correspondent of the ‘ New York' Times,’ who recently returned from Romo, speaking of the conditions in Italy, said that while 90 per cent, of tho people wore opposed to Fascism, they were without effective leadership, while slnssolini remained powerful and resourceful. This is probably an accurate summary of the position. The Hand of 11 Duce is strengthened by the presence of so many Nazis in the country, for it suits their book to have Italy remain in,the Axis partnership. She has had disastrous experiences in Africa, and discussion in United Nations circles ranges around tho possibility of devising means to increase them elsewhere. Contre-amiral d’Argonliou, tho delegate of the Fighting French in the Pacific, Las suggested that an invasion of Central Europe might best be attempted through Italy. That view is not supported by Count Sforza, a former Italian Foreign 51iuister, who is now leader of the Italian anti-Fascist forces abroad. In his opinion a United Nations invasion of Italy would not win that nation for democracy. A “dynamic, active, creative policy ” is advocated by him. The Italian people must be given positive assurances about their future. They must be informed that the peace they will receive will not bo a peace of vengeance or punishment. They must be made to feel that they will have the opportunity of choosing their own government, and that the Italian frontiers will not be violated. Count, Sforza declares that if a policy framed on these lines wore put into operation Fascism would bo destroyed and Mussolini overthrown in a few months. No doubt the wish is father to the thought, but the people of Italy arc suffering from hardships so great and tlioir losses in men, material, and territory are so enormous that it can well be believed that an opportunity to throw the present Government overboard would be warmly welcomed.