ITALIAN AIMS IN ABYSSINIA

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXIX, Issue 20146, 28 June 1935, Page 9

ITALIAN AIMS IN ABYSSINIA

EXPANSIONIST POLICY IN AFRICA OFFENSIVE FORECASTED FOR SEPTEMBER United Press Association -Bv Electric Telegraph—Copyright ROME, June 27. When discussing Abyssinia with Mr R. A. Edeh yesterday it is understood Signor Mussolini claimed for Italy: (1) The right to build roads, railways, bridges and schools in Abyssinia. (2) The right to use her influence in civilising that country. (3) The general right to the peaceful possession of colonies. Signor Mussolini pointed out that Itay was not prepared to lag behind Germany in claiming her right to Colonial expansion. It is understood that Mr Eden did not expound the British proposals for settling the ItaloAbyssinian dispute, because they are not acceptable to Italy. GRAVE DANGER OF WAR ITALY’S ARROGANT CLAIMS United Ptese Association—By Eleoirio Telegraph—Copyright (Received June 27, 7.15 p.m.) LONDON, June 27. The Rome correspondent of “The Daily Telegraph” says: The press remains silent upon the conversations in which Mr Anthony Eden participated, with the exception of the earlier reports. While everybody hopes the Italian aspirations will be realised peacefully, many believe that war is inevitable. Things have gone so far that nothing short of a military protectorate on Moroccan lines will achieve Italy’s ambitions, namely— To provide room for Italy’s surplus populations; Freedom to exploit the supposed untold mineral wealth of Abyssinia; Control of Abyssinia's foreign policy; and The right to represent the Emperor in Europe. There seems to be no objection to the Emperor remaining on the Throne. Italy would suppress slavery, and open schools throughout the country. In the meantime the departure of troops continues. Italian Offensive Forecasted. The Addis Ababa correspondent of the “Daily Telegraph” says that, owing to the tension, there is a possibility of an Italian offensive in July. Barely a dozen Italians remain, except those at the Legation.