TALK OF WAR IN ITALY

Southland Times, Issue 24144, 5 June 1940, Page 7

TALK OF WAR IN ITALY

MEETING OE CABINET “ONLY TWO MEN KNOW” MILITARY DOCTORS CALLED UP PRECAUTIONS TAKEN IN EGYPT (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright) (Received June 4, 11.40 p.m.) ROME, June 4. A sitting of the Italian Cabinet, under the presidency of Signor Mussolini, ended at 11.30 o’clock this morning. It is understood that no important decisions were made, although measures for the training of more naval cadet officers and affecting trade, food rations and the employment of women were passed. One newspaper stated that only two men knew when Italy would enter the war, but it would be soon. Military doctors and veterinary surgeons are being called up on June 6. All doctors, chemists and veterinary surgeons under the age of 55 years are being appointed reserve officers. Tfie Rome correspondent of the British United Press says that the evacuation of barracks and other military centres in Rome has begun, in accordance with Signor Mussolini’s plan to declare the capital an open city in the event of war. Various departments and some Government Minis-' tries have been evacuated. EXHIBITION POSTPONED The Government announces the indefinite postponement of the Rome 1942 Exhibition because “several nations requested an extension of time in which to prepare exhibits.” There is every indication that Italy is about to enter the war, but the Allies will meet the new situation, if it arises, with calm confidence. In the meantime the British and French Fleets at Alexandria, in spite of the many calls on the navy from other quarters, have been considerably strengthened. Official circles in Madrid say that General Franco will keep Spain out of the war, no matter what Signor Mussolini may do. The Moscow News Agency emphasizes that tire present Italian attitude may be nothing more than a clever bluff. The same agency points out that the withdrawal of the Allies from Belgium has left the armies largely intact and has not involved them in a major reverse. The Egyptian police continue to round up Germans. The Prime Minister, Aly Maher Pasha, declared that the Government is studying new measures against “fifth columnists.” Aliens are required to appear at police stations to prove their identity. Special police are stationed in the streets of Alexandria to scan the skies for parachutists. Armed police have been posted at Government House and Government offices in Nicosia.