“HOW LONG?”

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 86, Issue 308, 31 December 1942, Page 5

“HOW LONG?”

QUESTION IN BRITAIN IN OPTIMISTIC MOOD IBy Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright) London, Dec. 29. Britain faces 1943 in a very different mood from that when 1942 began. The uncertainty and foreboding then predominant was followed by a desire to hit back, whatever the odds. To say to-day that the average Britisher is confident of final victory over the Axis is to state the obvious, and the chief question in his mind is now, “How long?" instead of “Can we win?” Confidence in the power of the Allies goes hand in hand with increased confidence in our own forces. For instance, the recent British Army's successes have had an important psychological reaction. The Royal Navy and the R.A.F. have always been regarded with confidence, but until recently there was not the same feeling regarding the army, which was hastily assembled and indifferently equipped and armed. It had excelled chiefly by masterly retreats. The very mention of generals suggested a cheaper joke. To-day that atmosphere has evaporated, and the Britisher is equally proud of the army as of the other forces, and this has had an excellent effect. It would be wrong even to suggest that the standard of living of the people is generally other than good. This is important from the viewpoint of morale and is not to be lightly regarded in the fourth year of war. The problem of manpower both for the forces and industry is likely to continue to be a major problem, and there is a realisation that the coming year may take iv heavy toll of life, for which the nation is instinctively steeling itself. There will probably be • urther restrictions regarding food, clothing and fuel, but no man-in-the-streot would suggest that the borderline has yet been reached. Political Sphere. There is a feeling that British politics will be full ot interest, particularly regarding what is to happen after the war, and what preparations will be made. Reconstruction, both international and national, promises to rank imporantly. It is believed that a serious controversey is developing about the maintenance of direct economic controls beyond the war's end, because industry, trade, finance and labour are “heartily tired of being ordered about." It is realised that there will be an extreme shortage of consumption goods and an enormous unspent purchasing power, and that reconstruction and export will be swamped unless other demands are held bacK. On the other hand, it is argued that some freedom is necessary for private initiative if the adjustment of industry to peace production is to be carried out quickly and efficiently. Beveridge Plan. The Beveridge plan will undoubtedly be the subject of much discussion, and it is reported that strong opposition is being prepared. There are likely to be two arguments—shall Britain return to commercial and industrial prosperity before instituting social reiorms. or shall there be immediate action? Growing interest is being taken in America's post-war role. There is some concern lest America should repeat 1918 and retrn to isolation, rejecting international co-operation. There is also a feeling that American big business has grandiose ambitions, also that there is a tendency towards imperialistic nationalism. It is sincerely hoped that there will be improved mutual understanding of Anglo-American problems, difficulties and viewpoints during the coming year. The year 1943 will undoubtedly be one of important events and decisions.