Nazi Planes Laid Tanks On Island

Northern Advocate, 27 May 1941, Page 5

Nazi Planes Laid Tanks On Island

(Rec. 1.30 p.m.) LONDON, May 26. German planes are reported to have landed some tanks in Crete, but so far there is no definite evidence that the tanks have made contact with Empire troops. It is pointed out that the slight lessening in the intensity of the German attack on Sunday does not imply that the German drive is exhausted. The situation generally is unaltered. The Germans are still holdfhg Malemi aerodrome, and may have landed further troops in the Canea and Retimo areas.

Germans Anxious The Bremen radio indirectly admitted German anxiety about Crete when it said: “Tensely, although hopefully, we await further information from the High Command. We know they will always be truthful, but must delay in order to establish the facts.”

The Greek legation in London stated that the Ministers of the Interior, Labour, War and Air have remained in Crete to direct Greek civilian and military affairs.

Appreciates New Zealanders A Cairo message says King George of Greece has sent a personal letter to Mr. Fraser, N.Z. Prime Minister, expressing thanks and deep appreciation of the services of the New Zealand Forces and also of the arrangements for the safety of the King’s party.

A Wellington message says that the acting Prime Minister (Mr. Nash), has received the following from Mr. Fraser: “M. Capsalis, the Greek Minister, who is in Cairo, called upon me this morning with a message of thanks and deep appreciation, from the King of the Hellenes and from the Prime Minister of Greece (M. Tsouderos) for the services rendered by members of the New Zealand Forces, and the arrangements made by Major-General B. C. Freyberg, V.C., for their safe conduct during their departure from Crete.”