ITALIAN IMPERIALISM

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19803, 31 May 1926, Page 8

ITALIAN IMPERIALISM

M A PLACE IN THE SUN.” STATEMENT OF HER CLAIMS. (Prets Association—By Telegraph—Copyright.) ROME, May 28. , {Received May 30, at 5.5 p.m.) In a speech in the Senate upon foreign affaire, Signor Mussolini demanded a place in the sun for Italy. He declared that Italian Imperialism was demonstrating the dignity of the Italian people. Above all moral dignity there existed the need of economic and intellectual expansion for the nation which had arrived a little late. Italian Imperialism was not of the aggressive or explosive character which led to war. The Fascist Government’s following could only pursue a policy of peace, but the desire for peace did not connote disarmament. Disarmament must be total, otherwise it would be a sorry comedy; it must be total on the sea, on the land, and in the air. There could her no idea of disarmament solely on land while naval armaments were maintained, or on the land or sea when aerial armaments were permitted. Until all States effectively disarmed themselves Italy could not disarm without running the risk of losing her independence and liberty. Young Italy must find a place in the sun. He believed it would be able to do so gently when the time came. He believed Italy’s allies in the war would decide to meet her legitimate claim, but he emphasised the fact that nothing would be given to anybody until Italy was satisfied. Italy had no intention of giving up the formidable weapon of a veto in the League, of Nations. —Sydney Sun Cable.