British Soldiers Do Not Want Italians As Allies In War

Northern Advocate, 28 September 1943, Page 2

British Soldiers Do Not Want Italians As Allies In War

LONDON, September 27. The first issue of the “Eighth Army News,” published on the Italian mainland, sharply reminds the Italians that they are defeated enemies. “Italy surrendered unconditionally, but what do we find?” the paper says. “Our soldier wishing to change his money finds it difficult, if not impossible. The Italians quibble about the rate of 400 lire to £1 sterling. Before Italy was our ally the army could commandeer typewriters, printing presses and paper. Now we have to be more careful and in some cases pay for these things. “Many Italians are under the impression we are going to spare the country the just retribution that a just victor normally demands. “With all due sympathy for the Italian sufferings under their self-chosen friends, we should set their minds straight on this. The Italians who sincerely cheer us today, also cheered Mussolini. Now they find they backed the wrong horse. “Many of our comrades were killed by the Italians and consequently many soldiers bristle at the idea of having the Italians as Allies.” ' Coolness Apparent The same issue carried greetings from Badoglio who wrote: “In the common struggle which awaits us Italian soldiers will march side by side wth their British comrades against the German oppressors for the liberation of Italian soil and final victory.” The Associated Press correspondent in Southern Italy says that British and American troops generally show [considerable coldness to Italy’s conIception that she is now an ally. Most |of the troops outspokenly declare that ffhev do r.ot want the Italians as allies The correspondent adds that King ■Victor, Crown Prince Umberto and [Badoglio and members of the Governj ment are / in a South Italian towr ! which is. ! in effect, the provisional [capital. Italian soldiers are in the [town and armed Italian sentries guarc jail vital points. Italian troops man the j defences. | “A British officer in this town tolc ime: ‘We are getting practically [everything we ask. About 70 per een |of the Italian officers are co-operatin? | with us.’ ” the correspondent adds.