MONS RETREAT.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 12670, 18 June 1919, Page 5

MONS RETREAT.

ACCUSATION AGAINST LORD FRENCH. Australian and NtZ. Cable Association. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright LONDON, June 11. Mr Asquith, denying responsibility for the shell shortage early in the war, levelled a grave accusation against Lord French's handling of the Mens retreat. Mr Asquith stated that a message from Lord French filled the Cabinet with consternation. The British commander contemplated, movements which would have had the effect of leaving the Allies in the lurch at a moment of the most extreme need. ' “The Times” carefully examines the known facts about the retreat, and declares that Mr Asquith’s allegations are not true. Lord French knew that heavy losses of guns, machine guns and equipment forbade the British Army taking the offensive. The position grew worse, and his judgment was confirmed by the sudden withdrawal of the French Army on his right. Then General SmithDoreen lost 14,000 men at Le Gateau 1 in an action taken despite Lord French and contrary to orders. Marshal Jeff re was clearly and repeatedly informed that it wae essential that the British, while keeping the line, should be retired ponding refitting and reinforcements. The British Cabinet thou sent Lord Kitchener to override Lord French, but the latter persisted with Ids plan, which triumphed at the Marne. Lord Kitchener was uot allowed to move a man or a gua.