IL DUCE’S CHOICE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 128, 30 April 1940, Page 7

IL DUCE’S CHOICE.

According to a correspondent of the Sydney Morning Herald the following courses are open to Signor Mussolini : Firstly, he can openly join Germany or the Allies. -Secondly, he can continue as at present. Thirdly, he can move in the Balkans, ostensibly to protect vital Italian interests, but in a way that would assist Germany. Thus, if “Germany invaded Rumania, Italy would seize the Yugoslavian coast and mine tlic entrance to the Adriatic Sea. It is not known what Italy’s reaction will be to the Allied diplomatic and economic offensive in SouthEastern Europe, which is forecast in Turkey. The Turks feel that Turkey is irrevocably linked with any move to oust German influence from the Balkans. Diplomatic, naval and military writers in Britain believe that Italy stands to gain more by remaining neutral, or by joining tlie Allies. They think she would make a suicidal mistake by joining Germany. Mr Lloyd George, in an article in the Sunday Pictorial, says: “Signor Mussolini means fo get something from this war, and that something is in the possession of the Allies. Germany has nothing to give, hut she can help Italy to get what she wants. Italy came into the last war after bargaining with both sides, and she joined tlie combination that promised her most. “Signor Mussolini is not bothering about merits,” Mr Llovd George continues. He is out for Italy. He firmly believes that now is her opportunity to establish a Mediterranean Empire; One word of warning, look out for Spain. She also has ambitions.”