The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. THURSDAY, AUGUST 24, 1933. THE EUROPEAN CONCERT.

Hokitika Guardian, 24 August 1933, Page 4

The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. THURSDAY, AUGUST 24, 1933. THE EUROPEAN CONCERT.

'Phb plan of the Duce for the main- * » tenanco cf pence and the ushering in of prosperity 'for Central Europe is not unpromising, because Italy has, (apparently, a good deal of influence with the German leaders, and if they can be controlled then the situation is most hopeful, There are German araoitions to annexe Austria, and the jrreinier of the latter appealed to Italy—Britain and France previously showing a disposition to side with Austria. The plan which Signor Mussolini has drawn up, has been approved by Dr Dollfuss on behalf of Austria. That. statesman made quite 'a. good showing at the London Conference, where he made his mark.' The Italian plan 'aims at maintaining the political status of Central Europe, which is quite a concession for Italy to make, because she is rather jealous of the advantage France gained over Italy under the Versailles Peace Treaty. Another definite point is that Germany must desist from any plans to bring about definite union 'with Austria, quite an important feature in view of what has transpired of late in the effort to win over Austria to the Nazi rule. It is clear that Italy through Signor Mussolini, exercises considerable influence, in Central Europe, and the Premier's mana even extends to Germany. It will be a happy issue indeed if the concert of Europe were assured. There are the elements for trouble over, the Polish Corridor, while the union Powers also have their' grievances one with the other, and itrequires a dominating force to hold the position. The world is ill a difficult position enough without having ia recurrence of war again ill Europe. Probably it us riot immediately pos slble, because for. financial reasons the belligerents are unready, But some of them arc nursing their grievances, supposed or otherwise, arid if these differences could be composed now under the friendly offices of the Italian movement, it will be a great gain internationally. The attitude of Italy is to be commended from every pointof view, and should induce France to bo more reasonable in the endeavour to bring in a better feeling in Europe. Great Britain, it may be sure, will be readv .to co-operate, as was indicated by Mr Ramsay MacDonald in his late tails with Signor Mussolini. A happy issue to the affairs of Europe will haie its effect on world, conditions at large. A more settled state of international affairs is much to he desired as an aid to quicker recovery. The doubt and unsettlement with regard to the general outlook has been retarding progress, and it can well he understood there has been a lack of security in mid-Europe for some time. If the intervention of Italy can mend the position arid assist to restore confidencel, the gain to those directly concerned and to the. world at laige, will bo of very great benefit.