COMMUNISM IN THE RUHR.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 18874, 29 May 1923, Page 6

COMMUNISM IN THE RUHR.

In view of the serious nature of the cable news from important cities in the Ruhr it is not surprising that a feeling of concern exists in Paris as well as in Berlin. The invasion of the Ruhr and the consequent interruption of comparatively peaceful industry have intensified the problem of high food prices, and the effect has been to give the Communists a plausible excuse for definite and direct action. It was anticipated, when France put into force her threat of the occupation of the Ruhr, that in addition to the larger difficulties involved in the execution of this step, internal complications within Germany would in all likelihood be caused. The Republican Government which was established in Germany when that country lost the war has never secured the adherence of cither Monarchists or Communists. The Monarchists disappeared temporarily during the struggle between the Republicans and the Communists, and when the Communists’ leaders were removed the overt opposition to the republic seemed to have been overcome. Moreover, although the Monarchists were never wholly idle, the Governmenf was always strong enough to prevent the possibility of any successful coup being effected by them. It would be rash, also, to suppose that the invasion of the Ruhr by France has strengthened the sentiment in favour of a monarchy. It is clear, on the other

hand, that the disorganisation which exists in the Ruhr has given the Communist at least a temporary platform for the exposition of his theories, and afforded him scope for the exercise of his activities. The occupied territory is now a favourable field for Communist propaganda, doubtless stimulated by the approval of Russia and subsidised with funds provided by that country. Oommunis'ts can point to the degradation which Germany suffered under her past rulers; they can blame the Republican Government for her present humiliation; and they can produce evidence of destruction by the French troops. The Manchester Guardian’s special correspondent recently described the damage done by French’ troops at Bochum, where rioting has just taken place. “This morning,” says the correspondent, “I inspected the f damage done to the Chamber of Commerce building by French - troops. Every room in the building has been 'wantonly damaged and looted.” He. gives specific examples such as the removal of the furniture, the raiding of the wine cellars, and the slashing of oil paintings of local dignitaries. This sort of thing appears to be associated with alien invasions on the Continent, and they must create widespread resentment in centres where they are practised. In the midst of chaos the spokesman of Communism can pose as a deliverer. It is difficult to believe that his programme will meet with a very great deal of success in a country which cannot be ignorant of the present plight of Russia, but it is to be recognised that the growth in any marked degree of a sentiment in favour of Communism in Germany would create ad-, ditional difficulties for the whole of Europe.