ANXIETY IN HOLLAND

Wairarapa Times-Age, 8 May 1940, Page 6

ANXIETY IN HOLLAND

ALL . MILITARY LEAVE CANCELLED

APPREHENSIONS OF GERMAN AGGRESSION. BELGIAN VIEW OF ALLIED POLICY. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright. (Received This Dav. 1 p.m.) LONDON. May 7. The cancellation of all leave in Holland has surprised the public and has afforded concrete evidence of the increasing tension of Germany’s neighbours. An official statement described the measure as precautionary, in view of the increased uncertainty of the international situation. This is the first time since the outbreak of war that all Dutch leave has been cancelled. It increases the number of mobilised troops by at least one-tenth. The order applies to workers in war industry. Supplementary orders have recalled to the colours two classes of Marines specially trained for coastguard duties. It is also announced that the mouths of the Meuse and Rhine will be closed to shipping between May 11 and May 13. Traffic is prohibited by water or roads in south-eastern Holland for the same period. Reports from the Hague declare that observers are discussing the possibility of a landing being attempted on the Dutch coast, because the Allied navies are mainly occupied elsewhere. “The Times” Brussels correspondent says Holland's action is believed to be partly due to reports of increased concontrations or German troops opposite the provinces of Gronigen and Dronte, also great military activity in Hamburg and other German North Sea ports. A Belgian Wair Office official declared: "We arc always alert, but there is no reason to suppose that we shall follow the Dutch example, although it is impossible to predict what will be necessary tomorrow or the day after.” The Belgians are convinced that the war will be won or lost in the West and therefore are relieved that the Allies have not become too deeply involved in Norway. The German Press is hinting at the possibility of air raids against British shipyards.