In the West

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXVIV, Issue 15, 21 December 1915, Page 5

In the West

HAIG’S FIRST REPORT. [United Pkess Association.! London, December 20. General Haig’s despatch says:— Early on Sunday morning the enemy discharged gas against our line northeast of Ypres, accompanied by a heavy bombardment. Except in a few places where the enemy were driven back before reaching our lines, they were unable to leave the trenches owing to our fire. Our protective measures against gas are effective, and our line everywhere is intact. Hostile artillery are unusually active east of Ypres and west and south of Messines. We brought down an enemy aeroplane east of Armentieres.'

GENERAL SIR DOUGLAS HAIG. (Received 8.5 a.m.) London, December 20. German criticisms on Sir Douglas Haig’s appointment show that the writers are not certain how to view the change. The Lokal Anzeiger says Haig lacks experience in commanding large masses of troops.

THE DAILY REPORT. The High Commissioner reports:— London, December 20 (4.35 p.m.) There has been artillery fighting between the Somme and the Oise. A battery in the region of Fay was reSaced to silence. North 6f the Aisne ie French have evacuated a small ■jtost which was captured.h by surprise