NAZIS PREFER LAVAL

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 85, Issue 37, 13 February 1941, Page 5

NAZIS PREFER LAVAL

CRISIS IN FRANCE NOTHING AGAINSI DARLAN PETAIN TO TAKE A “REST” (By Telegraph—Preea Association—Copyright) Received Feb. 12, 5.5 p.m. LONDON, Feb. 11. The German-controlleu Press in Paris is making it clear that Berlin is dissatisfied with Marshal Petain's latest Cabinet changes. The newspaper L’Oeuvre says today: "We have nothing to say on the I question of Admiral Darlan (recently appointed Vice-Premier and Foreign Minister). Alone, or almost alone in Vichy, he represents the will to collaborate loyally with Germany, but we are bound to declare bluntly that we would have preferred it if Pierre Laval had taken over the helm of State at once.” The paper implies that Marshal Petain should no longer hold the office of Prime Minister. It says frankly that the reason why M. Laval (deposed Vice-Premier) declined the position of Minister of State was that he could not ensure the continuity of collaboration with Germany without what the paper described as "the indispensable personal authority.” L’Oeuvre goes on to say that the solution of the crisis is neither final nor complete, and that Admiral Darlan’s political wisdom will be gauged from the manner in which he is able to prepare the return of M. Laval. The Toulouse radio, which is of course in the non-occupied area, admitted last night: “We have not yet emerged from the phase of danger,” but said that French people were solidly behind Marshal Petain in his strict adherence to the terms of the armistice with Germany. A decree has been issued in Vichy providing for Admiral Darlan to take over the duties of the Chief of State should Marshal Petain "be prevent?! for any reason from fulfilling his iUT'Ctir ns." Failing Admiral Darlan, it is decreed, a person nominated by a majority of the Cabinet should carry on. Ac.ndral Darlan took over the office of Foteign Minister from M. P. E. Flandin on Sunday, and was nominatec. vice-Prime Minister as well as retaining his post as Minister of the Navy. Reports from Vichy say that indications are that further Cabinet changes will not take place before the middle of this week, and that Admiral Darlan may take over other Ministries. There is still no hint of M. Laval’s intentions since he refused an offer by Marshal Petain to enter the Cabinet. Marshal Petain has left Vichy for Villeneuve -Loubet. near Cannes, for a few days’ rest.