FURTHER DISCUSSIONS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23027, 3 May 1938, Page 11

FURTHER DISCUSSIONS

BRITAIN AND GERMANY LONDON. April 23 It is authoritatively suggested that the German Government expects a resumption of the talks initiated when Viscount Halifax recently visited Berlin. The points for discussion are fewer than those between Britain and Italy, but are not less important. It is pointed out that Mr. Chamberlain, whose political position has been strengthened by the pact with Italy, firmly believes that the key to European problems lies in "appeasement." Meanwhile Germany most strongly £ maintains her eventual claim to colonies, but it is felt that, for special reasons of bargaining, she would beprepared not to press the matter immediately. It is expected that Mr. Chamberlain will disregard objections arising from Herr Hitler's conquest of Austria, as he over-rode opposition to the Italian talks based on similar considerations. German}' insists that no European co-operation can .be expected for the League of Xations while the Soviet is a member. If Berlin has its way, Czechoslovakia will have to satisfy a demand that the 3,000,000 Bohemian Germans shall come under the rule of the Reich. The ending of the Czecho-Soviet Pact will be demanded, and also the virtual disarmament of Czechoslovakia. This would make the Czech •nation of 15,000,000 a second Switzerland.