SOVIET DEMANDS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 20 October 1939, Page 5

SOVIET DEMANDS

FINLAND’S CRITICAL POSITION DISCUSSION OF STOCKHOLM CONFERENCE. GERMANY’S REPORTED HINT. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright. LONDON, October 18. The Stockholm correspondent of the “New York Times” says there is a tendency to believe that the assurance of Finnish independence given by the Soviet President, M Kalinin, to President Roosevelt was a good augury, but today’s news from Estonia shows that Soviet occupations implies strong censorship and strict regulations. It is not so liberal and discreet, as was'promised a few days and disappointment is felt. Finnish officials have a good argument against any Russian occupation except of the little island near Kronstad. The Kings of Norway, Sweden and Denmark, wishing to urge Finnish moderation, must realise that even for themselves it would be a serious matter to accept Russian control of the port of Hango or the Aaland Islands. The Swedish explorer. Dr Sven Heden, on his arrival, declined to comment on the conversation he had with Herr Hitler this week, but intimated that it was of great importance. It is easy to guess that Herr Hitler stressed that while the war continues Germany absolutely needs Russian support and can do nothing against Russian expansion in the Baltic. Indeed, it is discreetly indicated that if the conference could further peace on the Western front Germany would recover the full possibilities of protecting the; north States against excessive Soviet claims. There is an impression that any confidence in German help has been shaken by current events and naval methods. and that the four rulers will not go beyond a platonic wish for peace. FINLAND RESOLVED DEFENCE OF INDEPENDENCE. ASSURANCE OF SCANDINAVIAN SUPPORT. (Received This Day 10.10 a.m.) STOCKHOLM. October 19. Broadcasting from the royal palace President Kallio said Finland was determined to defend her independence, to which cause the support of the Scandinavia countries had taken expression in action.