Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 1940. SPAIN AND EGYPT.

Greymouth Evening Star, 23 September 1940, Page 6

Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 1940. SPAIN AND EGYPT.

comparative lull occurred in war activities, during the week-end,_ apart from the onslaughts by the R.A.F. on the Channel ports held by the enemy. It is doubtful if the average layman attaches enough importance to these continuous bombings by the R.A.F. on enemy bases, but, in fact, they are far more significant than the bombings of London. Hitler’s invasion plans have been hopelessly disorganised, and the manner in which neutrals have been impressed by the .R.A.F. exploits is real testimony to their value. Whilst referring to the R.A.F.’s bravery and efficiency, it is opportune to congratulate Pilot Officer Frank Denton on being awarded the D.F.C. To have acquired such distinction at so early a stage in his career, is something to be proud of, and Greymouth generally, will share the gratification that will be felt by his parents.

If there was little to report from most military fronts, the conference tables have been busy. From Rome and Berlin come various intimations as to the importance of von Ribbentrop’s visit, but these must be mainly conjecture. Obviously, the discussions at Rome are important, but not necessarily cheerful, for the. participants. One guess is that the entry of Spain, into the war, on the side of the Axis, is being prepared. Senor Suner, Spain’s Alinister of the Interior, has been to Berlin, and as his pro-Faseist sympathies are pronounced, it is reasonable to suspect that he is endeavouring to induce his brother-in-law, General Franco, to take the plunge. Senor Suner is reputed to be powerful in Spanish administration, and, doubtless, he has a great following. With the bait of the return of Gibraltar, the more aggressive of the Spaniards may be developing war-fever, but General Franco knows that Spain is in no condition to wage serious war. The country has not recovered • from the losses-and horrors of the civil •war,' and a quarrel with Britain would but add to the distress and sufferings. It. may be that the Axis are threatening' an invasion of Spain if she does not join them. Britain is doing her utmost, to keep Spain neutral.

Meanwhile, Egypt is also sitting on the tehee. The invasion of her territory by Italy is not considered apparently, an act of war, and the Cabinet majority is against active reprisals. Disgusted at this cowardice, some Ministers have resigned, but there is ho. evidence

that the Army leaders are with them. The British position is difficult in view of the Egyptian atti-

tude of neutrality. Until the Italians have met with serious defeat, the Egyptians will be look-ers-on. Britain has not been fortunate in her Allies, all being too weak, or too indifferent, to give her much help. Mr. AVillkie, the Republican candidate for the U.S.A. Presidency, declared that Britain was his country’s only friend. Britain could return this acknowledgment, because .if it were not for the U.S.A, she could look nowhere, outside the Empire, for support. Events are bringing Anglo-American nations closer, and this is of more consequence than possible additions to Britain’s foes. The Far East, as well 'as the Middle East, is giving cause for concern, with the U.S.A, being more directly interested.