BRITISH PRINCIPLES

Greymouth Evening Star, 25 August 1939, Page 7

BRITISH PRINCIPLES

OPPOSITION TO FORCE LORD HALIFAX BROADCASTS [BY CABLE —PRESS ASSN. —COPYRIGHT.] (Received August 25, 1 p.m.) LONDON, August 24. “I earnestly hope that reason will prevail, in the face of the consequences of a resort to force and before an nnretractable step is taken. 1 pray the Pope’s and Mr. Roosevelt’s appeals may find a response in the hearts of men,” said Lord Halifax, broadcasting throughout the world, along the lines of Mr. Chamberlain’s statement in the Commons. Tracing the history of the GermanPolish minority dispute, Lord Halifax said: If causes for complaints exist, let them be coolly examined, before world opinion is worked up, which would make their settlement a hundred times more difficult. 1 am confident that the Poles are ready at all ( times to discuss their differences with" Germany, free from the menace of force. The problem ought not to be incapable of settlement, but the real difficulty springs from deeper causes. It must be remembered that the life of all nations depends on mutual respect for each other’s rights. Britain, throughout history, has felt bound to oppose the attempts of one Power to dominate Europe at the expense of another, for which reason we pledged assistance to threatened countries, including Poland. It is not the British way to go back on our obligations, now that the possibility of a conflict exists. . We have made the position perfectly clear. The twin f undations of British policy are determination to resist force, and desire to push on the constructive work of building peace. This cannot be achieved until the gospel of force is abandoned. The adjustment of differences by negotiation instead of force, and respect for pledged word, are the principles we will defend if trouble comes. “We have never, had, nor have we to-day, the remotest intention of attacking Germany. If German policy could only be directed to restoring confidence, by willingness to negotiate, we ask for nothing better than to help her to resolve her difficulties, our own, and world problems needing solution.”

Lord Halifax continued. “If British and German misunderstanding is to be removed, there must be some certainty about the future of Europe. Therefore, we feel obliged to resist an attempt to alter the map of Europe by force. If we fail to uphold the liberties of others, we run the risk of betraying the principle of liberty, our freedom and independence. I have no doubt those on whom rests the issue of peace or war will measure their responsibilities to present and future generations, before precipitating a struggle, involving many nations of Europe, the duration of which cannot be foreseen, and from which thos'e standing aside from active participation; will be vitally affected. “I feel certain that the Government’s attitude will meet the unanimous approval of the people. I have no doubt the whole country will support the measures we may be obliged to take in defence of the cause of just dealing between nations, and the preservation of honourable freedom in the world.”