LATE CABLE NEWS

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIX, Issue 21992, 18 June 1941, Page 5

LATE CABLE NEWS

WESTERN GERMANY BATTERED

(Rec. 130 am.) LONDON, June 17. While the night was peaceful practically throughout Britain, the Royal Air Force again carried on an offensive against the enemy, attacking objectives across the Strait Of Dover for many hours and smashing important targets in western Germany. The Air Ministry report that enemy activity was on a small scale last night. Three enemy ’planes were destroyed.

AGREEMENT WITH CANADA

(Rec. 2.10 am.) OTTAWA, June 17. Canada’s existing trade agreement with New Zealand, which has been on a yearly renewal basis will probably be extended to cover the duration of the war. This was learned after a conference between the New Zealand delegation headed by Mr F. Langstone and Mr J. G. Coates and members of the Canadian Government.

GUERILLA TACTICS BY FRENCH

(Rec. 2.15 am.). LONDON, June 17. It is authoritatively stated that the Allies have captured Madami, 10 miles south-west of Damascus and are now attacking Aatouz, six miles south-west of the capital. The Alfies are holding Kiswe with strong forces and have strengthened their position by gaining control of a fortified position in the neighbouring heights, which Indian and colonial Infantry stormed and captured. French tanks continue their delaying actions, but the situation is stated to re well in hand, though it is admitted that the campaign may d-aw on longer than expected. Surprises are still possible as it is difficult to keep a check on the movements of small French untis rmploying the strategy used in Morocco, namely, dashing from one point to another and retiring whenever they encounter opposition. General Dentz is attempting to save Damascus by employing motorised columns and cavalry in a wide movement. One column, after losing many vehicles, suddenly attacked and took Ezra, then pushed on towards Sheikh Miskine, which the Alfies still hold. Other small French units are reported to be approaching Dera and concentrating around E! Quneitra with the object apparently of cutting the Allies’ communications and relieving the pressure on Damascus by necessitating the dispatch southwards of troops from the Allies’ forward area. The extent of the French guerrilla movement may be judged from the fact that one column counter-attacked Merjlyun though it failed to dislodge the Australians.