FRANK AND FRIENDLY

Northern Advocate, 21 January 1935, Page 7

FRANK AND FRIENDLY

BRITISH OBJECTIVE EUROPEAN RELATIONS. A GENEVA BROADCAST. [British Official Wireless .l (Received 12.30 p.m.) RUGBY, January 20. The sole aim of British policy towards Europe was defined in a broadcast address by Mr Anthony Eden at the meeting of the League of Nations Council at Geneva, as the establishment and maintenance of frank and friendly relations between all neighbours on that continent.

He suggested that it was not unreasonable to hope that the solution of the long-standing Saar problem would open a new era of opportunity, which, if well used, would enable the nations to contribute more } than professions of good will to the common stock.

To allay the troubled spirit of insecurity and promote that greater sense of confidence which in itself was an essential in an enduring peace, all nations must combine. Referring to the undertaking given by Germany to refrain from reprisals and persecutions in ' the Saar, Mr Eden said that the nations were entitled to expect these promises to be kept. There is no official confirmation in London that any date has so far been fixed for the withdrawal from the Saar territory of the international force. The decision on this subject will be taken by the League on the advice of the Governing Com ; missioner, after consultation with the Governments who have troops in the

area. The Geneva correspondent of “The Times” says that the manner of the negotiations there between France and Germany has left a cloud which threatens to spoil the atmosphere of optimism in which Sir John Simon agreed a week ago to discuss with M. Laval the subjects to be raised in the London conversations, which will begin on January 31. Particular reference is made to the continued vilification of Mr Geoffrey Knox in reports of incidents in the Saar, and the contrast between utterances of Herr Buerkel and the carefully prepared - and amicable speeches of Herr Hitler.

“•The Times” adds: “The motive of the London meeting was a desire to tackle the European situation with speed and determination. It was fnade clear that German co-operation was sincerely: desired. What does not seem to have been grasped so clearly is that the further relations of Germany will be discussed whether, her practical co-operation is forthcoming or not.

FUTURE OF THE SAAR. GERMAN STATEMENTS. CRITICISED BY ITALIANS. (Received .10.30 a.m.) LONDON, January 20. The Rome correspondent of “The Times’’ reports that political circles there are openly asking whether the Saar vote will have far from a tranquilising effect in Europe, and whether it may only herald complications. Although allowance is made for German jubilation, Italian newspapers emphasise passages in the German press, notably that Germany is destined to assume spiritual guidance of all people. The newspapers warn Germany that Europe will not permit the Saar to be confounded with Austria, which is not German.