ITALY’S FEARS

Hokitika Guardian, 13 August 1937, Page 1

ITALY’S FEARS

OF BRITISH ATTACK

LONDON, August 11

The move for more friendly relations between Britain and Italy has resulted from Mussolinli’s fear that the ■Empire intended to attack his- country. It is. revealed in diplomatic circles in London that Mussolini wrote to Hitler six weeks ago asking whether he could rely upon the support of Germany if the attack came. Italy had , received, lie indicated, information that Britain desired j to check Italian expansion in the Mediterranean. Mussolini put it to Hitler that the attack he feared might not come if Berlin were to make it clear that Germany would come to the assistance of 'Rome. Hitler is reported to have delayed his answer. In the meantime the British Foreign Minister (Mr Eden) and the Prime Minister (Mr Chamberlain) became aware of Mussolini’s fear, It is not revealed whether Hitler acquainted them of the news he had received from II Duce. but Air Chamberlain hastened to write to Mussolini, suggesting an appeasement of AngloItnlian friction. ,

Then Mr Eden made his statement in the House of Commons that Britain harboured no ulterior motives •■unst Italy. * This was deliberately done to further allay Italian anxiety. The,'next move was made by Hitler, who answered Mussolini’s letter, stating that he would welcome a new and closer contact between London and Rome, although lie said he was pessimistic concerning the possibility of a new Western Pact. iHitler added, however, that Chamberlain's action should do much to relieve international tension.