Manawatu Evening Standard. TUESDAY, MARCH 30, 1937. ITALIANS IN SPAIN.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 100, 30 March 1937, Page 6

Manawatu Evening Standard. TUESDAY, MARCH 30, 1937. ITALIANS IN SPAIN.

The internal strife in Spain long ago passed from being a civil conflict—that is Spaniards against Spaniards—to a war of Italians and Germans against the Spaniards. Both Hitler and Mussolini sided with the rebels, and both sent, troops to Spain to help General Franco. Italy has been the biggest offender in this respect, having sent at least two divisions, besides rendering assistance with aeroplanes and supplies of munitions. Many of the Italian soldiers were veterans of the Abyssinian campaign. There is no doubt that this accession of strength was welcomed by General Franco, who had worked his Moorish foices to a standstill. At the outset, and with the aid of the foreign legions the rebel leader was able to-register considerable success, which elated the Italians who were in greater number than the Germans. They were so proud of—. their achievements that they insisted upon being placed in the forefront of every major attack.

The foreign levies did excellent service so long as the loyalists were still behind with their preparations. But there has now come a change over the scene. The loyalist Spaniards are proving themselves to be just as brave and intrepid as the foreign legions, and in the past week or two they have routed the rebels. The Italian soldiers appear suddenly to have developed an eagerness to retire instead ol fighting. These Italians participated in the Abyssinian campaign and must now realise that there is a big difference between fighting black men poorly equipped, and white men well equipped. The Duce is evidently anxious to avoid further loss of prestige, as he is reported to have assured Britain that he will send no more soldiers to Spain, and that Italy will shortly be prepared to discuss the withdrawal of volunteers. If this information is correct it will help to clarify the position from an international point of view, though it was disquieting to learn on Saturday that German fighting ’planes had passed oyer Switzerland en route to Spain. It may, after all, be merely a rumour for which there is no foundation.

The fighting in Spain would end more speedily if foreign nations would allow the loyalists and insurgents to settle their own differences. At present the Government have slightly the upper hand, but matters are complicated by the action of Germany and Italy in acknowledging the Government of the rebels, but this occurred when Franco had bright prospects of winning. If the rebels are driven out and there js no Government, what happens to Italy? There i, s some

evidence to . support the belief that General Franco promised Italy and Germany valuable concessions which seem likely to po by the board.; The outbreak of (he civil war is no credit to the land-owners and other factions in Spain, and when the time comes for the internal wash-up, there will be much confiscation of property.