SECOND FRONT

Grey River Argus, 26 January 1943, Page 5

SECOND FRONT

ALLIED PLANS London Press Comment [Aust. & N.Z. Cable Assn.) ‘ LONDON, Jan. 24. The “Daily Express’” diplomatic correspondent says: Second front plans are again being discussed” by Britain and the United States. Mr. Roosevelt made it clear that attacks against the Axis may be made at many points simultaneously. ihe heavy sustained air attacks on '.the European mainland are part of the Allies’ offensive plan. It is now .considered certain that to some extent the Germans are withdrawing voluntarily from parts of Russia to taKe advantage of shorter supply lines. The 'Germans may attempt to go over t 0 static defence and content themselves with holding the Russian army while freeing big forces for the defence of Germany from direct attacks from the west and south. The reluctance of the German air force to make large scale attacks on Britain is seen as anxiety to conserve planes and trained men for use against direct Allied assault, rather than an actual shortage of planes. Hitler is on the deiensive in the air and on land. He dare not gamble nis air strength in ordinary air raids. The “Observer” says. “Germany is looking to Japan for help. Can Japan save the Germans?” It is sometimes suggested that the Japanese do not care too much for their European partners. That false conclusion is drawn from correct premises. Japan’s policy will be not to do anything which might go against her own interests. She therefore, v/ill not embark on any venture merely to satisfy the demands of her allies, but, on the other hand the Japanese interests dictate very definitely that the two naval Powers . and one land Power which can challenge her hegemony in Asia shall not be triumphant in Europe. To that, extent, therefore, she is vitally interested in a German victory, and ..will sro to great lengths to prevent a German defeat . While' doing so, Japanese policy pursues its own ends and the pattern of this policy is now becoming' recognisable.”