ADVERSE COMMENT

Wairarapa Times-Age, 9 May 1940, Page 5

ADVERSE COMMENT

ON PREMIER’S STATEMENT SOME OPPRESSIVE DOUBTS. UNCONVINCING DEFENCE. LONDON, May 8. Commenting on the debate in the House of Commons on the Norwegian campaign, a number of British newspapers ask whether the Prime Minister has rightly judged the mood of the people. “The Times” (Conservative) in a leading article says: “Mr. Chamberlain reminded the House of Commons of the necessity for being prepared to cope with a conflagration in several quarters. However, the experience in the past month has not encouraged confidence in the thoroughness of our preparations to meet such emergencies. The people are well aware that they face a threat unparalleled for centuries, but they are absolutely resolute to face whatever may befall. Their most oppressive doubt is whether their rulers are so conscious of the danger and so energetic to withstand it as themselves.” The “News Chronicle” (Liberal) says: “The Prime Ministers’ defence is thoroughly unconvincing. This Government must go, and the sooner the better.”

The "Daily Herald” (Labour) says: “Mr. Chamberlain's stocks, which were low enough before the debate, have now fallen through the floor. His indecision imperils our cause . His complacency is a dangerous drug. His qualities might well snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.” Other newspapers which have supported the Government express doubts and uncertainty. The “Daily Telegraph" (Independent Conservative) expresses approval of the Prime Minister’s main points.

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