Holland.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXVII, Issue 67, 19 July 1915, Page 5

Holland.

WINSTON CHURCHILL.

QUESTION OF NEUTRALITY

Unitkd Press Association. Rotterdam. July 7

Mr Winston Churchill, in im interview with the Nieuwe Rotterdanische Courant (which has been censored in London) says that had Antwt rp lioen able to obtain transport along the Scheldt it need not have fallen,' and the Belgians would have been able to maintain their position on the Net he instead of the Yser. Holland’s neutrality was not one-sided, and it now holds Antwerp closed for the Germans.

“Don’t misunderstand me,” he said; “had the Netherlands allowed violation of neutrality it would nave been ataoked and perhaps <• coupled in a groat part hy the German army. The Allies had carefully respected the Netherlands’ right, as an independent State, to consider its own interests. The Allies did not ask, or even hint, for a passage along the Scheldt. Danger will never threaten from our side, hut a ftee Netherlands cannot exist with a German Antwerp. There are possibilities ot real danger, because Germany may he forced to attack Holland. Germany is getting into, the position of

A Wild Beast in a Cage which sees the flames coming nearer and nearer, and makes desperate dashes to left and right. Fortunately, you have your good brave army, and then your wonderful waterline. After this war the position of small States will be stronger than ever. Ihe criminal who has thrown himsell on to the little Belgium will stand, altfr his chastisement, as a fearful example. The Allies are Going to Win.

The world stands open to us. We can recuperate and strengthen ourselves as often as is necessary. Britain’s determination and power grow monthly; men are streaming in. Wo are unable to equip them as quickly as they offer themselves. The industrial resources are being thoroughly organised, and the production of ammunition will he staggering. The fleet is continuously growing stronger. The Italians have joined us; they are fresh, and more nations will follow. Is it strange that the British were not as strong as the Germans on the first chly? These people had prepared themselves for forty years, whereas we had to expand while fighting, and had party to improvise.” NOTHING TO FEAR FROM ENGLAND. The Neuve Cpurant, commenting on the interview, says that it confirms Hutch neutrality, and that Holland has nothing to fear from England. The interview has given satisfaction in Holland.