SEEKING SUPPORT

Evening Post, Volume CXVII, Issue 22, 26 January 1934, Page 8

SEEKING SUPPORT

FRANCE LOOKS TO RUSSIA

CANDID ARTICLE

. Factors of the present European situation which may 'lead France to' promote further relationships between herself and Eussia are examined with remarkable frankness in an article published in the "Oeuvre," one of the leading organs of the Left (states the ''Daily Telegraph."). The writer is a. woman journalist, Mme. Genevieve Tabouis, who is often well informed. In the past few days, she writes, there have been important conversations between the Premier, M. Cha-i----temps, tho Foreign Minister, M. PaulBoncour, the. Minister of "War M. Daladier, and MM. Herriot and Beranger, Chairmen of the. Foreign Affairs Committees of; the Chamber and the Senate respectively. These, talks, it is suggested, have played an important "part in deciding French policy in face of Germany's armament demands. "It is clearly realised," the writer continues, "that if France wishes to oppose the ambitions of the Reich and to break off negotiations with it, she will have to seek the support of as many countries as possible. FrancoRussian rapprochement has already been under discussion on and off for several months. . We are inclined to believe that if this idea has not been applied sooner it was largely for two reasons:— "In order not to .create d'nee more in Germany the fear of being encircled, which might produce in a nation as nervous as that of the Third Reich 'an immediate foolish reaction. "On account of Japan and the effects which a pro-Russian attitude might have on our colonies in Asia and especially on Indo-China in an eventual Russo-Japanese war." Many people, Mme. .Tabouis declares, hold that these two considerations are of less importance in view of recent events. "Germany's attitude and her intensive re-armament are honestly sufficient to destroy our scruples about 'encircling'; the recognition of the Soviets by the United States greatly minimises the present risk of a RussoJapanese war." Referring to the reports of Russian aviation brought back to France by the Air Minister, M. Cot, after his recent visit, to the country, Mme. Tabouis concludes that in any case Russia is now strong enough to resist a Japanese attack. She ends her article with the following words:— "Obviously the Quai d'Orsay cannot help thinking that Franco-Russian rapprochement displeases many countries in Europe, including Great Britain. Hence its hesitation. "Nevertheless, it is safe to assume and probable that, in view of; our resolute and clearly-defined policy, the attitude of many countries will change, and in such a manner that Germany herself will perhaps be constrained to modify her attitude." It is interesting to recall a speech made by M. Paul-Boncoui- in the Chamber of Deputies- recently.. He then