ANGLO-FRENCH TREATY SIGNED AT DUNKIRK

Wanganui Chronicle, 6 March 1947, Page 5

ANGLO-FRENCH TREATY SIGNED AT DUNKIRK

Recd. 9 p.m. London, March 5. Although the continued absence of newspapers in Paris has robbed Frenchmen of the readiest way of expressing it, there is no doubt the general and genuine satisfaction felt by all classes at the signing of the AngloFrench Treaty, says “The Times’ ” Paris correspondent. Mr. Bevin and M. Bidault signed at Dunkirk yesterday.

The British and French Governments Issued later a joint statement saying that the treaty defines the arrangements worked out between them for establishing on a firm basis and within the framework of collective security as laid down by the United Nations a charter of reciprocal guarantees to prevent the recurrence of German aggression. Many see in it more than its purely practical significance, for the development of international relations, says “The Times' ” Paris correspondent. The choice of Dunkirk for the signing has emphasised the symbolic value or the past—the clasping of hands on a common battlefield after years ot trial, through which both countries remained true to their old luyalties. That France and Britain should stanc firmly together in the coming years might never have been in serious doubt, but that they should have signed a solemn pact to do so is both a gauge of common policy and an acknowledgment of past omissions. There is a special welcome for the clause in the treaty providing against Germany’s adoption of aggressive policy, lor in this the French, rememoering the course of Hitler s rise to power, see their best defence against the hazard of another invasion.

The treaty will remain in force for 50 years. The preamble takes cognisance of the treaties both countries have with Russia.

The six articles of the treaty provide:— .

1. Both countries will take agreed action to prevent any threat by Germany to either nation; 2. Should either country become involved in hostilities against Germany, the other contracting party will give all military and other support ana assistance in its power; 3. In the event of either nation being prejudiced by Germany’s failure to fulfil tne terms of the peace settlement, Britain and France will consul; with each other, and, where appropriate, with other Powers, with a view to taking agreed action. 4. Both countries will take all possible steps to promote each other’s prosperity and economic security;

5. Nothing in the treaty win derogate from British and French obligations under the United Nations Charter, and neither country will enter into an alliance directed against the other, or enter into obligations inconsistent with the present treaty; 6. The treaty will come into force as soon as it is rectified, and remain in force for 50 years, or indefinitely, unless either party gives a year’s notice of its intention to terminate it.