THE MONS RETREAT.

Taranaki Daily News, 18 June 1919, Page 5

THE MONS RETREAT.

MR. ASQLITH'S GRAVE ACCUSATIONS. DEFENIOE OF FRENCH'S TACTICS. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received June 17, 10.10 p.m.

j London, June 10. Mr. Asquith, denying responsibility for the shell shortage, levelled a grave accusation against Lord French's handling of the Mons retreat. Mr. Asquith stated that the message from French filled the Cabinet with consternation?. The British, commander's contemplated movements Would have had the effect of leaving the Allies in the lurch at a moment of the most extreme need.

The Times carefully examines the known facta about the retreat, and declares that Mr. Asquith's allegations are untrue. Lord French knew that the heavy losses of guns, machine-guns, and equipment forbade the British Army from taking, the offensive. The position grew worse, and his judgment was confirmed by the sudden withdrawal of the French army on has right. Then General Smith-Dorrien lost fourteen thousand men at Le Cateau in an action taken despite Lord French and contrary to orders. General Joffre was clearly and repeatedly informed that the British, while keeping their line, should be retired pending refitting and reinforcement. Cabinet then sent Lord Kitchener to override Lord Frenoh, but the latter persisted with his plan, which triumphed at the Marne. Lord Kitchener was not allowed to move the men or gun 9. —United Service.