Unrest and Disillusionment in Italy

Manawatu Times, Volume 65, Issue 307, 16 December 1940, Page 7

Unrest and Disillusionment in Italy

LIVING IN THE GRAVEST HOUR OF THEIR HISTORY’ ’

(British. Official Wireless.) Received Sunday, 9.20 p.m. RUGBY, Dec. 14,

While it is apparent that the Italian people do not regard with equanimity the reversals experienced by Italian arms sustained in a war for which they had no desire but were coerced into the undertaking in order to further Mussolini’s aspirations, it is not likely that the British and Greek victories, bril- > liant as they are, will at once bring about a debacle on the Italian home front.

The present situation must come as a profound shock even to the devoted followers of tho Duce, especially as events have shown how illprepared the country was for a military adventure rushed into by its political chief at a time when he thought great gains could be secured from the success of his fellow dictator at the expense of their unfortunate neighbour. 1 Unrest and disillusionment are at present manifesting themselves even within Fascist circles, ad an effort is being made to divert criticism from politicians and concentrate the blame on the army. Evidence that such unrest is occurring is shown by Count Farincci (President of the Grand Fascist Council) who in a newspaper article states: “It has become necessary to issue strict orders to all leaders on former Fascist executives stating that the Fascist Party will apply the sharpest measures against those who do not or will not understand that Italy is at war. While her soldiers are sacrificing their lives at the front a definite end will be put to defeatest and antiFascist propaganda.” Commenting on that article the Daily Telegrapk says: “Count Farincci has been allowed or ordered to proclaim what looks almost like civil war. Marshal Badoglio and his friends in high places and in the army are the enemy.” The newspaper then points out that the Duce himself is commander-in-chief of the army and readily accepted the laurels of victory but apparently expected Badoglio to shoulder the responsibility in meeting adversity.

It adds: “Before now self-imposed Governments have found it necessary to find scapegoats in military commanders and before now the scapegoat has turned into a veritable unicorn. The Rome radio speaks truly when at the end of an endeavour to belittle the Greek and British successes it stated: The Italian people are aware they are living in the gravest hour of their history.”