DUKE OF WINDSOR

Hokitika Guardian, 13 August 1937, Page 6

DUKE OF WINDSOR

SIGNIFICANT REFERENCE.

LONDON, .August 4

Rome newspapers attribute to the Duke of Windsor a significant reference to the betterment of Italo-Britisb relations.

.The statement is given importance as the first political comment made by the Duke since he abdicated the English throne.

While motor-boating from the Lido to the Grand Canal, ,he is said to have remarked, after viewing a number of Italian warships:— “I see you have your squadron here. “It is a long time since British waiships called at this port, but they will not delay long in returning here.” The Prime Minister (Mr Chamberlain), informed Cabinet that it had been suggested by Mussolini through Count Grandi, the Italian Ambassador in London, that the Foreign Minister (Mr Eden) go to Rome to prepare the groundwork for better Anglo-ltalian relations. 1

Mr Eden has again sounded out the possibility-of a visit from the German Foreign Minister (Baron von Neurath) in the early autumn.

Such a visit, it is suggested, would pave the way for Locarno talks, possibly next October.

Hopes of a general 'understanding in Europe have -been-raised by the' knowledge that Britain has sent Notes to France. Belgium, Germany, and Italy in a renewed effort to promote a Western pact to replace Locarno. The Note,- it is understood, proposes the establishment of » joint committee to examine problems, and to report to the governriients interested. -