Atlantic Pact Will Lose Much Of Its Efficacy

Northern Advocate, 26 September 1949, Page 5

Atlantic Pact Will Lose Much Of Its Efficacy

DE GAULLE BELIEVES . . .

PARIS, Sun. (11 a.m.). —The Atlantic Pact would have been good if America had been able to preserve a monopoly of the atom bomb, but if the atomic weapon was to be in the hands of both camps, the pact as now drawn up would lose a great deal of its efficacy for Europe, said General de Gaulle, speaking at an open-air meeting in Bordeaux today.

“The Fi'ench people are feeling increasingly apprehensive.” he said. ‘Trench economy is only bolstered up because of temporary imports under the Marshall Plan.

disembark their armies. “England would fight if the West were attacked, but because of air power she has strategically ceased to be entirely an island. “She thinks first of her own defence and would not risk the main part of her forces on the continent. “It is up to the French people to ensure French security. “The immediate security of Europe and North Africa is in the first instance, the responsibility of France.” General de Gaulle emphasised that the Germans must be included among the peoples of Europe. Europe could only be re-created if a direct agreement was reached between the Germans.and Gauls.

“Our budget is only balanced by inflation. “The franc lias had to admit a fresh devaluation imposed from outside in disquieting and irritating conditions. “The nation must be warned tint nothing obliges the United States to t*Jte part in the immediate defence of our continent.

BKSrONSIBILITY OF FRANCE. “As l«ng as Europe does not constitute a powerfsf bridgehead do not let us expect arrive to