WAR PROBLEM

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23124, 24 August 1938, Page 13

WAR PROBLEM

NAZIS' DILEMMA FEELING OF THE PUBLIC OPPOSITION TO CONFLICT COMPLAINTS OF "TERROR" By Telegraph—Press Association —Copyright LONDON, August 17 Informed critics are weighing carefully the internal situation in Germany, and trying to decide whether or not the German publicwants a war. What the man-in-the-street in Germany wants will not affect the decision of Germany's war party, if that party decides in favour of war. It is recognised that even the bestinformed critics of Germany do not know the true internal position, but it is believed from what is actually known that the temper of the man-in-the-street is against war. It is considered from the various decrees that have been issued that the economic situation is not strong, and that the liberty of the individual is being increasingly restricted. The concentration camps are being filled, and ordinary • German workmen who express criticism of the speeding-up of the war machine seem suddenly to disappear. Discontent of Working Class Tlio Manchester Guardian goes ro far as to declare that the German working class is particularly discontented — so much so, that, although there is no organised sabotage in factories, there are perceptible differences between the willingness with which men work for war and for peace. In some big war industries the slowness and apathy of the men, in spite of high wages and piece-time, are disturbing the Nazi officials. The workmen are stated to bo complaining of rising prices, the poor quality of food and clothing, the lack of freedom, and the "terror," which is the name given to the sudden swooping down on factories resulting in tb« arrests of men, who are never seen again. The Manchester Guardian continues: "There would seem to be no prospect of any improvement. More than six years of dictatorial power have benefited only the National Socialist Party and tho Officer corps. Opposing Views of Situation "The Third Realm for the first time is at a loss to know what to do next. It is true that a long and arduous conflict would probably mean the end of the National Socialist dictatorship and a good deal more, but it is feared that the National Socialist leaders, Herr Hitler included, may be inclined to take the risk soon. That is why the European situation is recognised in London and Paris to be very grave."

Other well-informed quarters consider that Germany's leaders may be inclined to the belief that only a sudden and rapid armed victory in Central Europe will give Germany quick access to raw materials, such as Rumanian oil and grain. Others flatly declare that Germany's leaders are not weighing the chances of a successful conflict, that they will never start a war in Central Europe at any price, and that peace is assured for many years.