WALLACE MEETS WITH RESERVE IN BRITAIN

Greymouth Evening Star, 16 April 1947, Page 7

WALLACE MEETS WITH RESERVE IN BRITAIN

IN.Z.P.A. SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT]

LONDON, April 14. More interest is being taken in the visit of Mr Henry Wallace, the former Vice-President of the United States, than in any other American politician who has come to Britain since Mr Wendell Willkie was here during the war. It should be noted, however, that his opinions are being vie.ved with distinct reserve among a wide section of the British public, though there is agreement in deploring the drift towards two worlds. For one thing, the anti-Russia wave which, according to reports, appears to be sweeping America has not been felt in Britain to anything like the same degree. The average Briton, though he regrets, and is often cynical and mystified by the inability of the Big Four to agree, is far more cautious about the possibility of an open breach with Russia. Moreover, as is evidenced by a section of opinion in the House of Commons, there are some who are uneasy about Britain being too closely linked with America and who believe that there should and must be some way of becoming more friendly with Russia. Up To Russia The Observer suggests that any contribution Mr Wallace can make towards peace should be done in his own country, where there are reckless extremists, rabid reactionaries, and men who foster anti-Russian sentiment as a weapon of their attacks on progressive movements in America and social reform in Britain. The Glasgow Herald suggests that as both the British and Americans have done their best to co-operate with the Russians and have not only had no response, but have met with obstruction and abuse, Mr Wallace should deliver his plan for one world from the Kremlin with the support of Mr Stalin and Mr Molotov. “But though he appears to be angling for an invitation from Moscow the gods whom he propitiates give no sign of having heard. Until there is some response from that quarter the rest of the world will remain sceptical of the success of his mission.” In addition to being criticised in America for his statements here, Mr Wallace is now also drawing some direct comments from British newspapers. “A Little Clumsy”

The Manchester Guardian says: “It must be confessed that the total result of his visit is slightly disappointing. One is left with the impression, which is clearly false, that Russia remains a passive, inert and helpless victim of American expansion. It must be a matter of opinion whether he is wise to make his visit to Britain a kind of political campaign against his own Government. As an apostle of one world, Mr Wallace seems a little clumsy.” x .. The Observer comments: While welcoming Mr Wallace, we must recognise that' he is not at present in a position to influence American policy. The American Right abhors him and he has not united support on the Left. His visit will be surrounded with unreality unless this is understood.”