GERMAN ITEMS

Hokitika Guardian, 19 September 1923, Page 3

GERMAN ITEMS

PASSIVE RESISTERS

[“Tub Times” Service.]

(Received this day at 9.23 a.m.) LONDON, Sep. 18

The “Times” Cologne correspondent say that there is a general impression in the Rhineland that the Franco-Ger-man pourparlers will come to nothing. It is only a matter of days when Berlin’s supply of money will cease, and the passive resistance will collapse automatically. not heeanse the workers are mere pocket patriots, but because they must l:o fed and will be forced to earn their bread by serving the invader*. The alternative thereto is rioting and plundering. What will happen thereafter is a <|iier.v. There are three possible alternatives. First: A Franco-Belgian economic and political alliance, based on German vassalage. Secondly: Germany's declaration that the invasion of the Ruhr is illegal, ((instituting a state of war and conferring upon France and Belgium the responsibility for bee food supply, telegraphic, railway and other communications. In this ease there would not he armed German resistance. The inhabitants have hcen under martial Jaw and must obey French orders. The Germans advocating this alternative say that it is Germany’s only chance. Slie is doomed any way, let her sink with her colours nailed to the mast. Thirdly: Germany can capitulate, purely and simply, whereatter the Heidi will break up the civil war which will ensue. There will he a Communist triumph, a Fascist reaction, French suppression of the disorders with, a firm hand, and eventually the establishment of a Rhenish and \\ estphalian Republic.