RETURN OF LOST COLONIES

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIII, Issue 20670, 8 March 1937, Page 9

RETURN OF LOST COLONIES

SEQUEL TO BREACH OF ETIQUETTE DIGNIFIED ATTITUDE OF BRITAIN United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright (Received March 7, 6.30 p.m.) LONDON. March 6 A Berlin message says that Herr von Ribbentrop’s reference in his speech to Germany's own strength had hitherto been construed as placing before the world the alternative of restoring colonies or forcing Germany to rely on her own strength. However, the publication in newspapers of messages from abroad, especially London, indicating that a sinister indication had been placed on the phrase, caused an official of Herr von Ribbentrop's office to state that the Ambassador only intended to convey that while Germany must regain her colonies she will also rely on her own strength, presumably meaning her four-year plan of ensuring independence in the event of emergencies. Thus the phrase was not a threat but a promise. Breaches of Etiquette The political correspondent of the Australian Associated Press is informed that the British Government is ignoring Herr von Ribbentrop’s outburst and is not making representation to Berlin, regarding it merely as another of Herr von Ribentrop’s glaring breaches of diplomatic etiquette. Germany’s campaign for the return of her colonies is regarded here as being insincere and representing no real issue. The Australian Associated Press is further informed that Britain is satisfied that Australia will never give up New Guinea, and New Zealand will not cede Samoa.