GERMAN FORCES

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24529, 11 February 1941, Page 7

GERMAN FORCES

PRESENCE IN BULGARIA OBVIOUS TACTICS A DENIAL FROM SOFIA (United Press Association) (By Electric Telegraph—Copyright) LONDON. Feb. 10. (Received Feb. 11, at 1 a.m.) The Sofia correspondent of the British United Press states thai official quarters deny Mr Churchill's statement that German troops are already moving into Bulgaria, and add that the only German soldiers in Bulgaria have been there a long, time training the Bulgarian Army to use its German equipment Mr Churchill did not say that German soldiers had moved in. He said that thousands of ground personnel had occupied the airfields, preparations were being made for the troops and "perhaps this southward movement has begun.' The Sofia correspondent of the Daily Mail says that mobilisation is proceeding steadi. l and the majority of those called up are going to the Bul-garian-Turkish-frontier, The German plan apparently is to have the Bulgarian Army to block the Turks while the Germans proceed unhindered into Greece, It is no longer considered a question whether the Germans will march through, but merely a question when. AMERICAN COMMENT "MAGNIFICENT SPEECH" WASHINGTON, Feb. 9. (Received Feb. 10, at 10 p.m.) Senator G. Glass characterised Mr Churchill's speech as " magnificent, and it's a damned sight better speech than anyone in the Senate will make against the Aid Bill." Senator Elbert Thomas said: "It proves that blood and sweat can accomplish something." Senator Burton Wheeler said: "If we are not going to send American boys, why are we buying 4.500.000 tags and 1,500,000 caskets?" Senator Wallace White (Republican) described the speech as " full of courage and hope." Senator Morris Sheppard stated that it was "fine and reassuring." NEW ZEALAND'S TRIBUTE " INSPIRING AND HEARTENING " (Per United Press Association) WELLINGTON," Feb. 10. The Prime Minister, Mr P. Fraser, sent the following message to Mr Churchill:—'' Heartiest congratulations on your splendid address; which was received here ;this morning under excellent radio conditions. Its inspiring and heartening character will strengthen the will, and fire the spirit of all British peoples throughout the world in their determination, to' Complete the task, to which they have set their hand. The courageous example of the people of the Homeland in the midst of their terrible dangers and grim privations calls'forth our deepest admiration. We would like, you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you always, and .that in pur own war effort we will endeavour to match our energies with those of the British people."