THE VATICAN.

Press, Volume LXIII, Issue 19139, 24 October 1927, Page 9

THE VATICAN.

FASCIST OFFER.

WORK OF MUSSOLINI

(BY CABLE-rRESS ASSOCUTIO>;--COrXr.IOHT.I (AVSTftAMAK AND NM CADLE ASSOCIATION,)

(Received October 2:3 rd. 5.5 p.m.)

LONDON, October 22. The ''Daily Telegraph's'' Rome correspondent says that there is reason to believe that the Fascist reply to the Vatican was dictated by Signor Mussolini. The Pope received a copy immediately.

It is understood that the reply was better than was expected. It pointed out that this was the first time since 18<0 that the Italian Government openly admitted that the Roman question still exists. The Vatican argues that tie territorial problem is not necessarily the first consideration. A solution on a juridical basis might be considered provided it contains the requisite external signs of sovereignty and independence The Vatican specially welcomes the remark that the solution may be arduous, but is not impossible, ibis is likewise the Vatican's viewpoint.

[The newspaper "Osservatore Romano recently published a statement to the effect that the Pope had decided m favour of the Fascist Government's suggestion to recognise the Pope as the sovereign possessor of the remainder of the former Papal States. On the other Hand, the "Morning Post's" Rome correspondent expressed the opinion that the restoration of some land was necessary, pointing out in the words of the newspaper, "The Vatican will never invoke any international tribunal awaiting the sense of rectitude and justice of the Italian people. The Pope is the sole judge of hie own liberty, and at present he does not feel free."]