UNITED AUSTRIA

Waikato Times, Volume 122, Issue 20433, 25 February 1938, Page 8

UNITED AUSTRIA

“WE REMAIN FREE - ’ DR. SCHUBCHNIGG CHEERED DESIRE FOR PEACE United Press Assn.— Eiec. TeL Copyright (Received Feb. 25. 3.15 p.m.) VIENNA, Feb. 24 Proceeding between rows of members of the Fatherland Front, students , . r _r_ ■ >r. Dr. Kurt Schuschnigg received the plaudits of 4< I at Parliament House in order to deal with the Berchtesgnden conversations. The cheering lasted five minutes. In side the Chamber were the entire Diplomatic Corps, including Herr von Papen. Dr. Schuschnigg, referring to the gravity of the occasion, declared:— “ Our first duty is to preserve the freedom and independence of the Austrian Fatherland. Popular front and dictatorial constitutions are both excluded in Austria, whose constitution knows no parties. The Government unalterably adheres to the May, 193 i. constitution, and intends to’ secure pence with all countries and extend it within frontiers to the best of its ability. “ This peace agreement after a five years’ fight was the purpose of the Berchtesgaden meeting,” he added. The new Government is'not a popular Front tied to parties, but a single, united front of all classes. Austria is a German country and stands or falls with Its German mission. “ Austria will conduct her politics In accordance with her declaration that she Is a German State. The conclusion of the ..new agreement ends a period of tension/’ he said. “ Austria has always recognised the political ideal of the German State, but there must be no interference In Austrian affairs.” Referring to Austria’s good relations with England, France and Switzerland, Dr. Schuschnigg specifically omitted Itaily. He ended by declaring: “ Austria remains free, and for this we fight to the death."