GERMANY AND SPAIN

Greymouth Evening Star, 29 April 1941, Page 7

GERMANY AND SPAIN

ECONOMIC PRESSURE

[BY CABLE —PRESS ASSN. —COPYRIGHT.]

LONDON, April 28.

The Lisbon correspondent of the “Daily Telegraph” says that Germany is now exerting economic pressure on Spain in an attempt to compel consent to a policy of full co-operation. The latest move is Germany’s refusal to permit the transport across unoccupied France of an important consignment from a central European country. This consignment has been bought-and paid for by Spain and its delivery is vital to the economic life of Spain. It is the first time Herr Hitler has used blockade as a weapon against Spain.

PREPARING TO JOIN AXIS.

(Recd. April 29, 2 p.m.). LONDON, April 28.

Lisbon reports state that Senor Suner is finalising preparations to declare Spain openly on the side of the Axis. It is believed that Spain will then join issue with Britain, either alleging that the blockade is responsible for Spanish starvation, or demanding the return of Gibraltar, When this is refused, Spain is expected to attack Gibraltar, with German assistance. This plan is believed to have been accepted in principle, with its timing the only consideration. The “News-Chronicle’s” Lisbon correspondent states that Mr. Weddell warned Senor Suner that the United States would regard Spanish belligerency with the deepest disapproval, and would take the necessary steps, including the possible despatch of warships to African waters.

BROADCAST CENSORED.

(Recd. April 29, 1.50 p.m.). MADRID, April 28.

Mr. Churchill’s broadcast was published on the front page of the “Official Spanish Weekly.” His reference to the possibility of the war spreading to Spain and Morocco was omitted. The remainder of the Spanish Press is bound to follow.