REFUSED BY HUNGARY

Waikato Times, Volume 120, Issue 20889, 22 August 1939, Page 5

REFUSED BY HUNGARY

PASSAGE OF TROOPS IN THE EVENT OF WAR ( nueu press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyrighti LONDON, August 21 Hungary has refused Herr Hitler's demand that she should allow German troops to cross her frontiers and facilitate the free passage of German troops against Poland and Rumania in Ihe event of war, savs the Daily Express. It has been ascertained further, the p.per asserts, that Herr Hitler asked Count Csaky, the Hungarian Foreign Minister, for close economic and military co-operation, and said he wanted a decision quickly. a little over a week ago Signor Mussolini told Count Csaky he would do his best for Hungarian independence, but when Count Csaky flew to Rome last Friday, he found a sharp change in 11 Duce’s attitude. Count Csaky, the Daily Express continues, vainly pleaded for three hours. Signor Mussolini advised him to accept at least the bulk of Herr Hitler’s demands, otherwise Italv would disinterest herself in Hungary's affairs. When Count Csaky returns to Budapest shortly, a proclamation r.f “benevolent neutrality to Germany" will he issued. The declaration will show willingness to place agricultural products at Germany's disposal, but will refuse to be bound by any military commitments. Germany’s Push to East The Budapest journal Nemetzo partially sheds light on Count Csaky’s .journeying, saying that Germany, realising Hungary is indispensable for her push to the east, wants to attach her politically, militarily and economically, leaving an outward form of independence. The paper adds: ‘‘Hungarians have no illusions about the outcome of such an attachment, so the Regent, Admiral Horlliy, is doing his utmost to combat German pressure. “Hungary is very loth to he drawn into a war against her friend Poland. In the fateful hours approaching, Hungary desires neutrality, but realises that Hungarian integrity cannot be preserved without Poland’s independence."