HITLER’S THREAT

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20891, 24 August 1939, Page 9

HITLER’S THREAT

NOTE TO BRITAIN DEMANDS ON POLAND PARTITION OR PROTECTION (United Press. Assn.—Elec. Tel. Cooyrlgbt) LONDON, August 23 It la learned from a reliable source that a German Note to Britain, to which Sir Nevlle Handerson Is carrying a reply, was actually a detailed memorandum from Herr Hitler to Mr Chamberlain, setting out Germany’s uncompromising position regarding Poland. Mr Chamberlain decided to reply in terms of the Cabinet communique of lest night, which hae not been published In the German newspapers. Herr Hitler is reported to have declared that if Poland fought it would mean partition, but if she chose tc settle peacefully Germany would agree to an arrangement somewhat similar to that in Bohernla-Monavia—-namely that Poland should eojey autonomy under German protection. Herr Hitler is said to have repeated in strong language that neither Britain nor France was concerned with Germany's dispute with Poland. Tense Atmosphere The British Associated Press understands that this was the second document within two weeks that has been sent to Mr Chamberlain. The first memorandum was handed to Mr Chamberlain by a private individual standing close to the Prime Minister and also enjoying the confidence of the highest Nazi circles. The atmosphere on the PoliehSlovak frontier is reported to be very tense, and anti-Polish feeling among the Czechs and German populations is running high. Czech and Geivuan refugees are arriving constantly from Poland, and minor border incidents are occurring daily. Herr von Ribbeutrop arrived in Moscow at 1 p.m. local time, and is to see M. Molotoff, Soviet Premier and Foreign Minister, at 3 p.m. Even If the woret comee to the worst, the average German le convinced It will be all over In four or five days. His viewpoint coincides with the lioersenzeitung s headlines: ‘‘ London Puzzled and Afraid”—“Recognition of Defeat.” The pres* has made Germans believe .that Russia will now stand shoulder to shoulder with Germany, and actually Join in grabbing Polish territory. Alleged Beetle I Treatment Alongside stories of Poland # “bestial treatment of the Germans,” the newspapers unanimously declare Germany has resumed Bismarck's foreign policy of friendship with Russia which the Kaiser Wilhelm imprudently destroyed. Field-Marshal Goering’s newspaper the Nationalzeitung ominously states that Herr von Ribbentrop's discussions in Moscow will deal with .“the division of mutual spheres of influence," which is accepted as proof that the partition of Poland is planned. The Lokalanzeiger says Poland is now completely subordinated and will have to accept whatever Russia and Germany dictate.

HOUR OF CRISIS

DOMINION’S STAND STATEMENTS IN THE HOUSE NATIONAL UNITY ESSENTIAL (By Telegraph.—Special to Times) WELLINGTON, Wednesday The acting-Prime Minister, tiie Hon. P. Fraser, in the House of Representatives tonight stressed the need for national unity in the present critical period. Mr Fraser spoke in reply to the Leader of the Opposition, the lion. A. Hamilton, who said: “In view of Hie alarming situation that has arisen in Europe and the disquieting news received Jate this afternoon and published *u the picf.4. the Opposition wishes to assure the Government of its wholehearted supp< rt in all and every action deemed necessary to meet the crisis that has arisen. "The Opposition recognises that national unity is all-essential in such a crisis, and assures the Government of its unanimous backing.” Shoulder to Bhoulder Mr Fraser replied: “I wish to thank the Leader of the Opposition and tli • Opposition members for their oflcr of assistance at a pen nt which might possibly develop into < mot*; critical time for the people cf tins country and the British Coiim<n wealth of Nations. It is essen»'i! it this moment, not only that members of this House, but that everybody hi the Doninion. should speak with i united voice and show that the countrv stands si-lc by side and shoulder to shoulder with the other British nations. “We cannot but sympathise with the United Kingdom in its present position,” Mr Fraser added, "and with all other nations whose rights and liberties may be threatened at tills moment. “We devoutly pray that there will be no further development and that the counsels of peace will prevail, but, if the hour comes, it will find New Zealand united and solid.” A considerable crowd in the galleries and the members of the House heard 1 lie sentiments in an impressive silence.