HITLER'S RISE

Waikato Times, Volume 126, Issue 21043, 21 February 1940, Page 7

HITLER'S RISE

CLIMB TO POWER MILLIONAIRE’S EXILE TELL ALL HE KNOWS (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) NEW YORK, Feb. 20 A strong hint that he may soon tell all he knows about Hitler’s climb to power, which he assisted with his wealth, was given by Fritz Thyssen, self-exiled steel millionaire, in an interview at Locarno, Switzerland. “I have not abandoned hope of returning to Germany,” he told a correspondent of the New York Times, but ho appeared to fear for his life while on European soil. “I am still a member of the Reichstag,” he said, “and the Constitution has not been changed, although Hitler does not honour it. I have rights as a Reichstag Deputy, including personal immunity. “They have confiscated my property,” he said, “to punish me for disagreeing with their policies, but my person should be inviolate.” End of Hitler Regime In spite of a reiteration that he will return to Germany, Herr Thyssen indicated that he could not do so while Hitler remained in power. He evidently believed that the end of the Hitler regime was not far off, or at lease he expected to survive Hitler as a force in German affairs. He admitted his opposition to Germany’s present policies, particularly the Russian alliance, thus giving the impression that this was the primary cause of his break with Hitler Herr Thyssen is likely to publish sensational documents, giving the facts of his relations with the Nazis when he comes to America in April. He stated that nothing would deter him from publication, but at present he. did not desire to embarrass Switzerland by engaging in political activities while enjoying its hospitality. President Hindenberg Deceived He hinted that President Hindenburg would never have consented to Hitler becoming Chancellor if the Fuehrer had not deceived him as to his future actions. Herr Thyssen said he had bluntly warned Hitler that Britain would fight if Poland were attacked. He considered that Hitler had brought in the forces of Bolshevism and revolution which he was pledged to combat.

LOSSES AT SEA

HIGHEST OF THE WAR RESULT OF ENEMY ACTION NEUTRALS CHIEF SUFFERERS (Official Wireless) (Received Feb. 21, 11 a.m.) RUGBY, Feb. 20 Shipping losses by enemy action for the week ended February 18 were the highest of the war. Neutrals were by far the greatest sufferers. The week’s totals are five British ships, totalling 39,276 tons and fifteen neutrals. 46,801 tons. In addition the Admiralty has notified the loss of three British vessels, totalling 7562 tons. Three neutral ships, totalling 6830 tons, were not included in previous lists owing to lack of confirmation. The British ship Triumph, mentioned on February 14, was the only ship lost in convoy last week. Neutral ships numbering 160 were convoyed without loss. The Allied Navies last week captured three German ships. Two others were scuttled. In addition to the beaching of the Altmarck, the sinkings include the Wilja (Finnish), of 3396 tons, and the Sangstad (Norwegian), of 4297 tons. Both had not previously been reported. Attack On U-boats French naval circles announced that British and French naval vessels attacked several U-boats on February 19. It is impossible to say what resulted.