The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 1939. MOKE DEVELOPMENTS.

Hokitika Guardian, 23 August 1939, Page 4

The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 1939. MOKE DEVELOPMENTS.

The further news of the German request to Hungary to permit troops to i pass through, indicates a further measure of the Hitler plan to strive for additional territory beyond the confines of Central Europe. It gives colour to ' the fuller occupation of Slovakia, where complete control now enables the greatest freedom in military, movements towards the Balkans. There is r the developments also in the Tyrol, or Northern Italy, to be borne in mind. German troops have been passing . .through the Bremner Pass into the Tyrol, and it does not appear and the main objective is obscured, unless it is 1 to stiffen, the Italians in the event- of , conflict. Yugoslavia abuts Italy, and is'' the territory between Italy and Hungary, while Italy is in possession of Albania to the s.uth of Yugoslavia. Germany js thus strengthening her •position . in a. quarter which is likely to receive early attention if the Polish .issue can be determined. It is becoming more and more apparent that the limit of the demands and intentions in securing power over Europe is far from reached. In short, Herr Hitler has in mind the complete aocomplisli- ■ hient for Germany, of the policy set out in his book. After holiday-making, the British statesmen are now considering the war situation. The problem in China is no less difficult than in Europe, so that there are two major issue for consideration. Meantime, the Tokio talks has been of little up- I parent advantage, excepting in the j hope that an understanding may be reached with Russia. These talks are likewise unduly prolonged, and surrounded with deep mystery, of which, there is little explanation forthcoming. The proposal for an alliance appears •to have broken down, though talks for military co-operation appear to he proceeding more quietly. But the nonaggression pact with Germany is a in w issue for considerations. Meantime, Germany is busy consolidating her' position, and 'has carried out an encirclement policy oil Poland, wliihli

will make defence in that quarter difficult. To check help from the Balkans, Germany has the Slovakian wedge to counter, and the threat to march troops through Hungary. These dispositions suggest at once the magni-

tude of the war, if hostilities start. Apparently matters have gone beyond the state of reasonable appeasement by any tactful adjustments of boundaries. Germany evidently considers her strength sufficient for the gigantic fray to be faced. How far Italy can help is doubtful. There are signs of weakening in Italy, but with German troops in the Tyrol there 1 will be a driving torce at hand. The Italian navy would be of the greatest service in the Mediterranean, not only in assisting the German plan, but also holding Brit'sh ships which would be of service now in China waters. Continuous discussions are going on behind the scenes, and much is being prepared. Britain and France remain quiet and tolerant, with the warning that there must be no aggression. How long that can lie checked is now very doubtful. The troops are on the move, and all accounts point to early developments. While there is delay at the present stage, there is some hope.