P.M. Always Worsted—L.G.

Northern Advocate, 9 May 1940, Page 5

P.M. Always Worsted—L.G.

Mr Lloyd George, referring to Sir Samuel Hoare’s statement that there were no air bases available in Norway unless they were captured, declared that picked men ought to have been used, and measures taken in combination between the Army and Navy to guarantee success. The conduct of operations, he asserted. constituted a most serious condemnation of the Government. “After a good deal of reflection,” Mr Lloyd George went on, “I say deliberately that there is, in my judgment, no cause for panic, but there is grave cause for pulling ourselves together. “You cannot do it unless you tell the country the facts. “They must realise the magnitude of our jeopardy. “We want real action, not sham action. Hitler’s greatest triumph is that he has put Germany in a better strategical position and has put us in greater jeopardy. “Mr Chamberlain met Hitler in peace and war, and has always been worsted. (Loud cheers). “We were too late in Norway, although we had a warning. “Norway brings German planes and submarines 200 miles nearer. “It is a' grave menace. “We are infinitely worse off.

“Gur promissory notes are now rubbish in the market. Must Restore Our Prestige. “We must restore our prestige if the war is to be won. “We are in the worst strategic position in which this country has ever been placed. ' . “We are proud io read of the gallantry of our troops, and It is all the more shame that we should make fools of them. “Everybody is dissatisfied, knowing that everything has been done halfheartedly, inffectively an|l unintelligently.” Concluding, Mr Lloyd George said: “The Prime Minister has appealed for sacrifice. “The nation is prepared for sacrifices, as long as you show clearly what you are aiming at, as long as you make progress, it has confidence in its leaders. “And I say now solemnly to the Prime Minister that he should give an example of sacrifice, because H tell him that nothing would contribute more to victory than that he sacrificed the seals of his office." Mr Lloyd George sat down amid loud opposition cheers and Government counter cheers.