FRENCH DESIRE FOR PEACE

Southland Times, Issue 23816, 13 May 1939, Page 7

FRENCH DESIRE FOR PEACE

M. DALADIER OFFERS ALTERNATIVE

“TASTE OF WEIGHT OF ARMS”

(United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright) PARIS, May 11. The French Prime Minister (M. Edouard Daladier) issued a statement in the Chamber of Deputies. He said that France was determined to resist as long as was necessary all the tests aimed at weakening her moral resistance. France did not know hate, but felt a sincere sympathy with all peoples. She knew from experience that war would not solve present problems but, on the contrary, would make their solution more difficult and more ruinous. Others knew that France did not threaten them. She wished to collaborate with all, but desired to dominate none. Anglo-French solidarity was closer and more confident than ever. It remained the basis of French policy and could not be weakened by intrigue and propaganda. France considered the participation of the Soviet in the common work of mutual assistance essentially desirable. France, was not thinking of reducing her military measures, but rather of reinforcing them if certain massive mobilizations were maintained beyond the French frontiers. Some people hoped that France would allow herself to be demoralized by alternate threats and promises. Her determination had not been weakened and would not weaken. If a just and equitable peace were desired, France was ready to make it. If a blow were aimed at peace, her enemies would have a taste of the weight of French arms. “France considers it indispensable that Britain and France should share obligations,” continued M. Daladier. “We desire peace and we shall respect the rights of all. Violence and threats, however, will lead to catastrophe. The prospects of French bankruptcy and inflation have been averted.” . The Deputies applauded stormily. M. Daladier, insisting on an immediate debate, declared that it was essential that the world should be aware of French opinion by the evening of May 12. There was no significance in the debate. The Government was assured of a majority. In a passage believed to be directed to Yugoslavia, M. Daladier invited all peaceful countries to join the - AngloFrench guarantee system.