DRAMATIC GERMAN COUP IN AUSTRIA

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 61, 14 March 1938, Page 7

DRAMATIC GERMAN COUP IN AUSTRIA

Regime Collapses Under Threat of Invasion

PrO'Nazi Dr. Inquart Appointed Chancellor

Climax to Suspenseful Day United Press Assn.—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. LONDON, March 11. After a day of indescribable nervous tension, Dr. von Schuschnigg’s Austria collapsed to-night under Germany’s ruthless threat of force. German troops had already mobilised on the frontier when Dr. von Schaschnigg received Herr Hitler’s ultimatum demanding postponement of the plebiscite on Austrian independence. Dr. von Schaschnigg agreed on condition that Nazis in future refrained from disturbing order in Austria, bat this was not enough to satisfy Herr Hitler, whose reply was a demand for Dr. von Schuschnigg’s resignation. Herr Hitler also demanded that two-thirds of the Cabinet should be handed over to the Nazis and that Nazis throughout Austria should have unrestricted liberty. Hoars of breathless uncertainty followed, while a mass of conflicting reports sped across Europe. Evening brought the sensational announcement that the plebiscite had been postponed, bat a more dramatic moment still came soon after 7.30 p.m., which was the time limit of the ultimatum. Dr. von Schaschnigg, without preliminary warning, addressed the nation by radio announcing Austria’s submission to force and his own resignation as Chancellor. Immediately after Dr. von Schuschnigg’s announcement the Nazis, who had been told that Herr Hitler would not allow the referendum and, if necessary, would march in to prevent it, swarmed into the streets in thousands and took possession of the city. The next big event came at 8.15, when Dr. Inquart, the pro-German Home Minister, announced by radio that the German Army was on its way to Vienna. By 10 p.m. the Austrian Government had entirely ceased to function, although Herr Miklas had refused to appoint a new Chancellor and had entrusted the von Seliuschnigg Government with the duty of carrying on business. Then it was officially announced that Dr. von Schuschnigg had refused Herr Miklas's mandate to continue the chancellorship. Finally came the broadcast announcement: "Under the pressure of the circumstances, and in order to maintain peace, order and quiet, Herr Miklas has entrusted Dr. Inquart with the leadership of the Government.” The following Cabinet was appointed by Dr. Inquart:— \ ice-Chancellor.—Colonel Glaise-Horstenau. Minister of Justice. —Herr Frank Hueber, who is Field-Marshal Goering’s brother-in-law. Minister of Social Welfare.—Dr. Wilhelm Wolff. Minister of Finance.—Dr Ludwig Neumayer (reappointed}. Minister of Agriculture.—Herr Reinthaler. Minister of Trade.—Herr Fischboeack. Secretary of State.—-Dr Michael Skubl, who was former Chief of Police. Minister for the Moulding of Political Will.—Herr Klausner. Minister of Education.—llerr Menshin. MOST SERIOUS DILEMMA SINCE WAR Italian Decision To Keep Out FRENCH INVITATION REJECTED Received Sunday, 8.5 p.m. ROME, March 11. Italian political circles are bewildered at the turn of events in Austria, realising they are faced with the most serious dilemma since the Great War, but there is every sign that Italy has been thrown into complete inaction. A special envoy arrived by air from Berlin bringing Signor Mussolini a letter from Herr Hitler concerning Austrian affairs. The Fascist Grand Council met, and Signor Aifieri, Press Minister, afterwards told journalists that Italy for obvious reasons had decided not to interfere in Austrian internal affairs. Moreover, the plebiscite unexpectedly announced by Dr. Schuschnigg was not suggested by Italy, which advised against its manner, form and substance. The Council considered that events in Austria will result in an open expression of Austrian sentiment and wishes, which was shown decisively by the imposing public demonstrations. The Council also noted that the Italian Government rejected the F'rench invitation for concerted action, which, being without basis or aim, would only make the situation more difficult. Signor Aifieri read Herr Hitler’s letter to Signor Mussolini, o w hich he set out his reasons for sending troops into Austria. A communique states that the majority of German troops

returned to Innsbruck after two hours at Bremner Pass, which was left with several soldiers to carry out police duty. The Foreign Office spokesman stated that Italy docs not intend to interfere in Austrian affairs, but regards the events as logical and normal. The newspapers blame Dr. Schuschnigg for lack of comprehension and bad faith.