IMPORTANT VISIT

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 77, 19 October 1942, Page 4

IMPORTANT VISIT

FIELD-MARSHAL SMUTS IN LONDON STEM I.ATION AND INTEREST AROUSED (Roc. 11 a.in.) London, Oct. 18 No Dominion statesman visiting Britain during the war has aroused greater interest and speculation than the South African Prime Minister, Field-Marshal Smuts, whose presence to-day was universally Welcomed. From all sides pour tributes to this great Empire statesman, together with conjecture as to what will be the outcome of his visit. It has certainly intensified the feeling that Africa will be an important war centre this i winter—which is no mere speculation j in view of the present heavy attacks I against Malta, which are probably | cover for convoys, and also in view of j Goebbels’ recent incessant prophecies I that the British will soon attack m Libya. Field-Marshal Smuts, on his arrival, in a statement said: "1 continue to emphasise to the best of my ability j the importance of the African theatres jof war.” This is taken as a pointer ! to the tenor of his suggestions to the War Cabinet. Support for Goebbels’ forecast is based on the following: It is possibly too late for a western offensive this year for which reason the best aid which can be given to Russia will be by engaging the Germans in Africa where the season and climate at present are favourable. In addition, Rommel’s menace to Egypt must be removed. There are also signs that the Germans are making a movement towards Africa, that the Luftwaffe has begun a diversion to the Mediterranean and that German troops are reported to be moving to the Balkans.

Field-Marshal Smuts’ presence is taken as indicating that African theatres are being affected by great decisions in London as well as those in Berlin.—P.A. special correspondent.