THE ABYSSINIAN DISPUTE

Press, Volume LXXI, Issue 21411, 1 March 1935, Page 13

THE ABYSSINIAN DISPUTE

BRITISH CABINET'S VIEW NEED FOR SWIFT ACTION EMPHASISED (Received February 28, 8.30 p.m.) LONDON, February 27. The diplomatic correspondent of the "Daily Telegraph" says that steps are being taken by the British Cabinet to ensure that its views on the Abyssinian dispute are brought to the personal notice of Signor Mussolini.

Britain is alive to the dangers of allowing matters to drift, and urged on both sides the necessity for swift action. Britain is also at pains to remove the impression current in league circles that there is a private understanding between Britain, France, and Italy to give Italy a free hand to impose terms in Abyssinia.

ITALY'S COLONIES "NO THOUGHT OF ATTACK" ROME, February 27. Mr Afework Jesus, the Abyssinian Charge d'Affaires, told the foreign press: "I swear by my nation's honour that Abyssinia has never thought and will never think of attacking Italy's colonies. "The Emperor has thus solemnly assured King Victor and Signor Mussolini, and Italy continues to send troops, but so far as Abyssinia is concerned even defensive measures are unnecessary." He pleaded that Abyssinia should be given time to subdue troublesome tribes. INTERNATIONAL FORCE SUGGESTED LONDON, February 27. Mr G. Le M. Mander asked Sir John Simon (Foreign Secretary) in the House of Commons, whether, in view of the success of the international force in preserving peace in the Saar, he would ask the League Council to send a similar force temporarily to occupy the area disputed, between Italy and Abyssinia. Sir John Simon replied that there was no similarity between the situation in the Saar and the undefined border between Italy and Abyssinia.