THE FAR EAST.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 March 1927, Page 3

THE FAR EAST.

[Australian & N.Z. Cablo Association.]

DOUBT OF MUSSOLINI

(Received this day at 11.0 a.m.) LONDON, March 21. Those well informed do not hesitate to ascribe to Mussolini the role of villain of the piece. They consider Mussolini re,Rising the position of President of Albana is very weak, is simply making another of his dramatic moves, with probably no more serious A aim than to deflect Italian opinion; from internal to foreign afiUirs. Nevertheless Mussolini is credited with “Sufficient sense, insight and goodwill not to allow a- storm in a tea cup to go too ft.r.”

AN OFFICIAL VIEW. LONDON, March 21

An official description of the British policy is readiness to use good offices, if and when opportunity is offered, either by reference to the League or otherwise, but in determination not to associate herself definitely with either Jugo-Slavia or Italy. The Jugo-Slavian foreign minister’s frank, open invitation for an inquiry into Italy’s specific complaints ug.un.st her, is welcomed in Downing Street ■where it is at present interpreted as showing Jugo-Slavia has nothing to hide and Italy charges have no serious foundation.. The Foreign Office confidently 'anticipated the trouble will soon bo smoothed out.

THE ALBANIAN THREAT. LONDON; March 21

“Sensationalism and wild exaggeration” is the official circles description of the week-end’s reports of the Balkan crisis. Official dispatches do not confirm the rumours of serious warlike moveents and- preparations either by Albania or Jugo-Slavia. The authorities point out that armed raids by banjits living in the mountains around the northern corner of Albania occur every morning.