MYSTERIOUS “PEACE AGENT”

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLVIII, Issue 21558, 22 January 1940, Page 7

MYSTERIOUS “PEACE AGENT”

Man Accosts Foreign Secretary Widespread Interest Aroused British Official Wireless (Received January 21, 6.30 p.m.) RUGBY, January 20. According to information obtained in reliable quarters a man named Plessschmidt, who is understood to be of Danish origin, accosted Lord Halifax at his hotel in London some weeks ago and submitted a peace plan in writing. Plessschmidt appeared to be a wellmeaning, harmless enthusiast, and no importance was attached to him. In view of reports subsequently received of what Plessschmidt was and alleging what had passed at his interview with Lord Halifax, messages were sent to certain of Britain’s diplomatic representatives abroad putting the matter in its proper light. The prominence which has now been given his activities in the form of news reports of “peace moves” and “unofficial peace negotiations” and which are being given considerable circulation is felt by well-informed observers in London to show that Plessschmidt’s action while he was in London may be susceptible of other interpretations than the one which was originally put upon it. At any rate the significance of his initiative can be assessed in relation to the facts stated above.