IN ITALY

Hokitika Guardian, 11 December 1940, Page 5

IN ITALY

NAVAL COMMAND FURTHER CHANCES FORECAST. (United Cress Association Per Electric Telegraph Copyright). LONDON, Dec. 10. The British Associated Press correspondent at Rome says: “Twenty four hours have passed without any further resignations, but some quarters are expected'more changes in the command of the forces.” “The Times” Cairo correspondent says:—Failure of their motor torpedo boats lias bitterly surprised the Italians. In the sole engagement of any importance against H.M.A.S. “Sydney” and a destroyer in the Dodecanese Islands some time ago, these Italian boats were knocked out before they were near enough to launch their torpedoes. We who watched Italy’s « fine fleet whittled away have been surprised that the changes in the Command have not come sooner. The Italians in tlio past six months have not made a. concerted action, or carried out a raid, such as Admiral Cunningham produced several times monthly. But it is not true that Italians run away, 'flic British sailors agree that- the Italians, in a number of recent actions, though they were out-gunned, have adopted sound tactics in trying to draw the British warships into tne rage of their coastal batteries and Air Force. BADOGLIO AND IL DUG®. ROME, Dec. 10. It is officially announced that Signor Mussolini received Marshal Badoglio and had a cordial conversation with him. There is no confirmation .of the earlier report that 'Marshal Graziani has asked to he relieved of his command. Tt seems doubtful if he ever did so, as he has sent a message of thanks for greeting from the Fascist headquarters. 1 ITALIAN COMMUNIQUE. ROME, Dec. 9. ’ A special communique states that Italy knew when she entered the war that difficult moments were ahead. Those who find dangerous symptoms in lack of harmony and possible delays and catastrophes in the High Command changes are committing mistakes, as during the Abyssinian war. On the contrary, the changes will accelerate the war machine to swifter and more 'efficient rhythm. The German radio stated that General Camillio Grotti has been appointed chief of the Italian Armistice Commission, in succession to General Pinto.