"SLAMMING THE DOOR"

Wairarapa Times-Age, 28 September 1938, Page 5

"SLAMMING THE DOOR"

IMPRESSIONS OF HITLER’S SPEECH COMMENT IN LONDON NEW SPIRIT OF COMPROMISE NEEDED IN FEW REMAINING DAYS OF GRACE LONDON, September 27. London Press comment on Herr Hit-; ler’s speech is as follows: The “Daily Telegraph” says: “Herr Hitler’s speech, teeming with invective, was the worst possible contribution toward the needful pacification, of minds and tempers. The best that can be said is, that while it slammed the door, it did not inevitably bolt and bar it It carries us no further, but days of grace still remain. “It is preposterous to pretend that his scheme bears the slightest resemblance to the Anglo-French plan. Statements such as the one that his claim against the Czechs would be his last European territorial demand have been previously completely denied by subsequent events. “Nevertheless, he did not entirely burn his boats last night, as there seemed reason to fear. There is still a breathing space, but Berlin must show a new spirit of compromise if it is to be fruitfully used. “This may be the turning point in Herr Hitler’s whole career. The fateful issue before Europe is that France will aid Czechoslovakia if attacked and Britain and Russia will certainly stand by France.”. “The Times” says: “Herr Hitler’s speech, in a tempestuous and rather offensive statement of a perfectly reasonable case —namely, the right of the Sudetens to unite with the Reich —does not seem absolutely to close the door against negotiation. Though Herr Hitler said the German, part of Czechoslovakia, must become German, ‘now, at once,’ if he carries out his threat forcibly the Germans are likely to be sharply undeceived as the result of his implication that they will find only Dr Benes against them. The speech, however, will have done much to enlighten the world about the issues at stake. The question of the separating of the races has already been resolved, but the difference of method is due to a complete difference of outlook between Germany and France and Britain. The time limit is too short. Grave doubt can be entertained about the future of Czechoslovakia, despite Herr Hitler’s announcements about arrangements to include Hungary and Poland when the minority questions are settled. Mr Roosevelt’s message appeals to the right-mindedness of every nation. Britain is determined that justice shall prevail, and even now it can prevail without the use of force.” The “Manchester • Guardian” m a leader, says: “Efforts were again made yesterday to stop the tide bearing us rapidly toward the war that everyone with a conscience for humanity dreads and detests. There is no comfort tc be derived from Herr Hitler’s speech. He suggests no further negotiations, nor does he open a path leading to peace. His ultimatum is maintained. We should make a good showing if tested. Our resources and adaptability will not fail.” _. The “Daily Herald” today says: It could not previously be said with certainty that Herr Hitler knew, as he does now, that he could not invade Czechoslovakia without making wai against Britain, France and Russia. He must have known when he spoke last night that Britain, France and Russia will fight as they have pledged to do. The fight will be .against tyranny, against injustice and will be victor--10 The “News Chronicle” emphasises the value of President Roosevelt’s appeal as proving that American sentiment wholeheartedly supports international fair play. The journal adds that it is regrettable that it was hidden under the censorship of the Press and radio of unhappy Germany. The comment of Dr Masaryk, J2zech Minister in London, was: Hen. Hit-, ler’s speech is so unbelievable, uncultured and shocking that I am proud my Government’s decision to stano firm against the mentality whch ( i. trying to destroy European culture.