DESIRE FOR PEACE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 10 June 1939, Page 6

DESIRE FOR PEACE

MR CHAMBERLAIN DEFINES HIS POLICY ' READY TO DISCUSS CLAIMS IF THERE IS PROSPECT OF SETTLEMENT. DY NEGOTIATION AND NOT BY FORCE. (Received This Day. 12.40 p.m.) LONDON. June 9. The Prime Minister (Mr. Neville Chamberlain) addressing his constituents at Edgbaston, referring to Lord Halifax’s speech, said: “We are still ready to discuss round the table the claims of Germany or any oilier country, provided there is a reasonable prospect of a real settlement. obtainable by negotiation and not by force, ft is my policy to find out the possible causes of war and try to remove them; also to build up Britain’s strength, so that if ever it came to discussing terms of settlement, no country would be able to force us to accept terms dishonourable’ or dangerous to our vital interests. “I have had little help from the coun - tries with which I hoped to come to an understanding, but the building up of our strength has been so rapid that I am confident no country would lightly undertake a conflict with Britain. I note allegations for the purpose of propaganda, that Britain would use her mighty forces to wage unprovoked war but hope none will' be deceived by such obvious distortions of the truth. We must, however, resist attempts to secure universal domination by force. As long as I have my present health and strength. I mean to devote myself to the establishment of settled peace. CONCERN IN FRANCE ' NAZIS MAY THINK BRITAIN IS WEAKENING. PESSIMISM REGARDING SOVIET PACT. (Received This Day, 11.40 a.m.) LONDON, June 9. The statements by Mr Chamberlain and Lord Halifax have caused surprise in French Government circles. The Press emphasises the danger that the Nazis may believe Britain is weakening. Official opinion is pessimistic regarding the chances of concluding a Soviet pact. M. Laval, addressing the Senate, warned England and France against false illusions regarding the strength of Russia and her ability to help the democracies. FRENCH CONSCRIPTS. EXTENSION OF NORMAL TERM. (Received This Day, 11.40 a.m.) PARIS, June 9. M. Daladier announced that conscripts kept beyond their normal terms of service were being demobilised on September 1. BRITISH SPEECHES. GIVEN PROMINENCE IN ITALY. (Received This Day, 11.40 a.m.) ROME, June 9. In contrast to the German Press, Italian newspapers give prominence to 'Lord Halifax’s speech.