WAR IMMINENT

Hokitika Guardian, 1 August 1932, Page 5

WAR IMMINENT

IN S. AMERICA

PARAGUAY AND BOLIVIA

(United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.)

NEW YORK, July 30.

The “New York Tim'es’s” Buenos Aiics correspondent states:. The cen-tury-old boundary dispute between Paraguay and Bolivia over the possession of the Gran Chaco, a vast wilderness between inhabited parts of the two has'■apparently reached a virtual state of war to-day, according to reports here.

It is believed that a forma] war declaration is a matter of hours.

From Asuncion and La Paz, the two respective capitals, come rupcirt of several minor engagements over the possession of forts within the area, i which several were killed and wounded.

There is a warlike spirit prevailing in both countries, where there are heavy’ enlistments and subscriptions of money and supplies.

Bolivia’s demands include an outlet to the Atlantic via the Paraguay River. Bhe insists that any further mediation )>v neutral countries will Be futile. Although admittedly inferior in military equipment, Paraguay is apparently detemined to defend her position.

According to 'reports, Bo'lovia lire fifty thousand well trained and moderately equipped men ready for action;