Question of Procedure

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 44, 22 February 1938, Page 7

Question of Procedure

DECISION A PERSONAL ONE “SACRIFICED TO MUSSOLINI” Received Monday, 6.30 p.m. LONDON, Feb. 21. The Cabinet rift is explained in Mr. Anthony Eden’s letter of resignation addressed to Mr. Neville Chamberlain, in which he says: “The last few days have made plain a difference between us on a decision of great importance in itself and farreaching in its consequences. I cannot recommend to Parliament a policy with which lam not in agreement. Apart from this I have become increasingly conscious, as I know you have, of the difference in outlook between us intre- \ spect of international problems of the day, also concerning the methods by which we should seek to solve them. It cannot be in the country’s interest that those directing affairs should work in uneasy partnership, fully conscious of the differences of outlook and yet hoping they will not recur.” Mr. Chamberlain, replying *to Mr. Eden, said: “The decision unacceptable to you is whether the yiesent moment is appropriate for the commencement o-Anglo-Italian conversations. We hoped you would not feel this of sufficient importance to necessitate parting, which is painful to all of us, as there has been a large measure of agreement between us. Since your letter shows that this unhappily is not now the case, there is no alternative but to accept your decision.* * Mr. Chamberlain concluded by warmly thanking Mr. Eden for his loyal and helpful comradeship. Before taking leave of his colleagues Mr. Eden expressed the hope that they would still support the Government. He explained his decision was personal, and he did not wish to be Involved in any political movement whatever, because he would continue to support the National Government. It is understood Mr. Chamberlain considered it essential that Count Grandi’s visit should not immediately be followed by anything that could t>e interpreted as a rebuff from Britain, which would postpone the prospect of a general European settlement. On the contrary, Mr. Eden attached great im-