THE SAAR AREA.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIV, Issue 288, 2 November 1934, Page 9

THE SAAR AREA.

APPREHENSION OVER PLEBISCITE.

THREE POWERS’ INTERESTS.

LONDON, Nov. 1

. Significance is attached to an interview between M. Corbin (French Ambassador in London) and Sir John Simon (Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs), when the Ambassador indicated the French view of the steps required to ensure the smooth conduct of the Saar plebiscite. These plans are being considered in detail by the League Council oil November 19. The Daily Telegraph’s diplomatic correspondent understands that M. Corbin reasserted France’s determination to carry out her international obligations in the event of trouble developing in the Saar. The correspondent was assured that reports which are more specific in regard to the steps France will take in preparation for this eventuality are without foundation.

The Berlin Press is filled with protests against reports that France is preparing to concentrate troops near the frontier for intervention in the Saar in case of a Nazi putsch. A semiofficial source states that. Germany has every interest in seeing that the plebiscite is carried out under perfect discipline. The Deutsche Allgemeine Zeitung suggests tha.t the entry of French troops into the Saar might mean war. The Paris correspondent of the Times says that, though it is realised that France has special responsibilities in the Saar, it is also felt that the intervention of France alone, however justified, would lead to disastrous consequences. British troops, even ths barest handful, should accompany them. British objections to'such a commitment are fully realised, but it is urged, apart-altogether from the general question of averting a possible casus belli, that the juridical responsibilities of Britain are as great as France’s, and that such a flagrant violation of treaties as a putsch could not pass unchecked.