“ONLY NATURAL”

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20890, 23 August 1939, Page 7

“ONLY NATURAL”

SO VIET-GERM AN PACT CRITICISM OF BRITAIN ADJUSTING RELATIONS (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyrlrht) LONDON. August 22 An official German spokesman in Berlin declared the Russo-German pact was not extraordinary, it was only natural that Germany should strive to break through tlie encirclers. “The difference between our aetion and that of Britain.” he said, “is that we arc not concluding a pact with Moscow aimed at Britain, whereas England tried to conclude one aimed against Germany.” It is emphasised that the pact docs not affect domestic policy, it is pointed out that Turkey is on excellent terms with Moscow, but does not tolerate a single Communist at home. Herr von Ribbentrop. accompanied by Dr. Gaus and an interpreter Herr Schmidt will stay overnight at Konigsberg and will arrive in Moscow tomorrow. it is explained that Russia and Germany each will maintain its own political philosophy, but the two Powers will adjust I heir political relations. Aims of Herr Hitler The Berlin correspondent of the British United Press says the public is nonplussed at the news, which is published with large headlines, but without explanation. It is still generally believed that Herr Hiller will get what he wants without war. but there Is no doubt I lie German nation will fight to the last man jf necessary. Not a single report of an antiGerman tendency appears in the polish press, which gives the impression that not only is there no tension between Germany end Poland, but no questions are at issue between them. The only comment on the Russo-German pact is: “What will become of the GermanJapanese Alliance?" The leader of the Danzig Nazis. Herr Albert Foerster. addressing the congress of German jurists, said: “You will be aide to say you were the last body to meet in the so-called Free City, which is nearing its end.” Herr Foerster was in excellent spirits. Italy’s Demands on Franca The Rome newspapers give prominence to the Russo-German pact. II Popolo di Roma claims that Danzig should not be confused with the question of Polish independence, and that the situation is still open to negotiation. It is stated in Fascist circles that Signor Mussolini Is expected to press his demands against France. In Rumania it is considered Poland might as well lay down her arms. A crisis is expected on Friday. The Norwegian Foreign Minister, Herr Koht. stated In Oslo that the question of the Powers mediating in an effort lo maintain peace would he discussed at a conference to-morrow. A message from the Vatican City says the Pope is considering making a world broadcast for peace on September G.

GERMAN EXPECTATION

DANGER OF WAR REMOVED DEMANDS AGAINST POLAND IMPOTENCE OF BRITAIN United Press asm.—Elec. Tel. Copyright* LONDON, August 22 Well-informed Germans, says the Berlin correspondent of the Times, regard the pact with the Soviet as removing all danger of war from Europe, arguing that Britain has suffered a grave diplomatic defeat-, and will hardly now care to carry out her obligations to Poland. Therefore, the German demands against Poland will be granted fully, and Britain will be obliged to make the best of the new situation and accommodate herself to a new order in Europe. It is emphasised that Germany has no intention of attacking England or her possessions, and if Britain shows commonsense, an excellent understanding might be reached with the rulers of the Continent. In any case, it is asserted. Britain is now impotent to help Poland, and must, therefore, make the best of a bad job—which in the German view, however, will prove a constructive step in the interests of world peace. Satisfaction In Germany The news of the agreement spread like wildfire throughout Berlin, creating the greatest satisfaction everywhere, says the British United Press. One comment was: "Poland is now trapped, and the entire Polish question will prove another German walkover, similar to Czechoslovakia." Diplomatic observers in Berlin, says the Daily Telegraph's correspondent, describe Herr Hitler's turning to Communist Russia for friendship as one of the most dramatic acts of his career. It is interpreted as meaning that Herr Hitler will allow nothing, not even ideological differences, to stand in the way of the policy he considers it necessary to pursue to increase (treater Germany’s power and strength. EFFECT ON STOCK EXCHANGE BUSINESS ALMOST AT STANDSTILL LOWEST LEVEL FOR YEARS • United rres*. Asm.—Elec. Tel. Copyright, Received August 23, 11 a.m. LONDON. August 22 Business on the Slock Exchange is almost at a standstill. Jobbers have been marked down prices in all sections. Gilt-edged securities nominally are two points below yesterday, and many are at the lowest level since 1932. The Berlin Bourse opeued strongly.