NAZIS IN SPAIN

Waikato Times, Volume 194, Issue 22247, 17 January 1944, Page 4

NAZIS IN SPAIN

WSQUIETING RUMOURS DIVISIONS IN PYRENEES SUSPICIOUS PROPAGANDA (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) (Received Jan. 17, 3.15 p.m.) LONDON, Jan. 16 Disquieting reports in the last few days have come from foreign countries closely in touch with Spain chiefly, concerning the concentration of German divisions in the Pyrenees. The presence of German agents in Spain, says the British United Press, the source of such reports, cannot safely be set aside as mere rumours. One report stated that reliable information had been received that between 12 and 18 German divisions, including armoured troops and parachutists, were concentrated north of the Pyrenees. This coincided with an article broadcast from Vichy by Marcel Deat, who said: “An Allied landing is certainly possible in Spain or Portugal, where the Allies may count on support in the form of strikes, mutinies and revolts,” says the correspondent. “The Salazar and Franco Governments may be expected to put up stiff resistance, and no doubt defend themselves energetically.” “There is something ominously reminiscent about that phraseology,” adds the British United Press. “It has the same ring as the German excuses for invading neutral countries in the earlier days of the war. Possibly more significant are reports that nearly 1000 German tourists have suddenly turned up in Spain in the last 10 days. It is believed they intend to indulge in terrorist acts and inspire demonstrations after the usual Axis fashion. They are believed to have been responsible for the placing of bombs in ships carrying oranges to Britain from Valencia.”