BRITISH MOVE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23143, 15 September 1938, Page 13

BRITISH MOVE

GENERAL STAFF TALKS WITH FRENCH CZECHS FLEE FRONTIER REFUGEES IN PRAGUE DEMOCRATS' WARNING By Tolegraph—Press Association —Copyright (Received September 14, 0.15 p.m.) LONDON, Sept. 14 It is understood that Mr. Chamberlain had a long telephone conversation with the French Prime Minister, M. Daladier, about midnight, when arrangements were made for comprehensive consultations between the British and French General Staffs without delay. This coincided, according to the Daily Mail, with definite steps for the full mobilisation of the Fleet. An official Czech spokesman stated early this morning, says a message from Prague, that the Government intends to maintain its special measures until calm is assured.

The meeting between Mr. Chamberlain and British defence chiefs immediately had a calming effect, and disorderly incidents diminished. Trains arriving at the capital from Sudeten areas are fdled with women and children, who are fleeing from the war menace. Every hotel is filled to overflowing. The Sudeten German Democrat Party has issued , a manifesto in favour of peace. This states: "Equality of status for all nationals and far-reach-ing self-government can bo achieved without war. On tho other hand there is deadly danger of our people being misused as tools for the Imperialistic claims of hegemony. The Sudeten Germans will be the first victims when the nations rise against Germany. Their homes will be destroyed in a clash of world Powers."

It is stated that already 10 persons have been sentenced to death by courtsmartial for revolutionary activity at Eger, the chief centre of tho disorders, says the Prague correspondent of the News Chronicle.