HITLER DEMAND

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20024, 24 August 1939, Page 5

HITLER DEMAND

NOTE TO BRITAIN CHOICE GIVEN WARSAW ALTERNATIVE TO WAR SYSTEM OP AUTONOMY STRONG TERMS REPEATED (Elec. Tel. Copyright—United Press Assn.) (Reed. Aug. 24, 10 a.m. ) LONDON, Aug. 23. The Berlin correspondent of the Associated Press of Great Britain says it is reliably reported that a German note has been sent to Britain giving a detailed memorandum from Herr Hitler to Mr. Neville Chamberlain, setting out Germany’s uncompromising position regarding Poland. *'•

Mr. Chamberlain decided to rejjly in the terms of the Cabinet commiunique which was ,not published in the German newspapers.

Herr Hitler 'is reported to have declared that if Poland fought it would mean partition, but if she chose to settle peacefully Germany would agree to an arrangement somewhat similar to that in Bohemia

and Moravia, namely that Poland would enjoy autonomy under German protection.

Hflrr Hitler repeated in strong language that neither Britain nor France was concerned in Germany’s dispute with Poland.

The Associated Press understands That this is the second document within two weeks sent to Mr. Chamberlain. The first memorandum is said to have been handed to Mr. Chamberlain by a private individual standing close to the Prime Minister and also enjoying the confidence of the .highest Nazi circles.

British Resistance to Force

A dramatic new 'turn to the crisis was given by official confirmation _in London of the fact that the British Ambassador at Berlin. (Sir Nevile Henderson) was seeing Herr Hitler to-day. Sir Nevile left Berlin by air ait 9.20 a.m. for Salzburg, from where he would immediately motor to Berehitesgaden. It is understood that he bore a vital message from Mr. Chamberlain. It is authoritatively stated that the ambassador would present to HenHitler a statement along the lines of the British Cabinet communique.

The French and' Polish Governments were advised of the decision. “The British Government,” stated the Cabinet communique, “is of the opinion that there is nothing in the German-Polish difficulties which should involve a European war. The Government is ready to create conditions of confidence.” >

It added: “If, despite all our efforts, others insist on .the use of force, the Government is prepared and determined to resist ; it to the uttermost.” An earlier report was that it was understood ‘that (he message, that; Sir Nevile Henderson was taking to Herr Hitler was the British reply to the German note setting forth the German viewpoint on Eastern European questions.