CHANGE IN FRANCE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 25 November 1940, Page 5

CHANGE IN FRANCE

SPIRIT OF THE PEOPLE REVIVING

REFUSAL TO CO-OPERATE WITH NAZIS. SUPPORT FOR DE GAULLE INCREASING. (British Official Wireless.) RUGEY, November 23. 'Whatever may have been the feeling of the French people toward Britain a few months ago—and certainly it was then far from cordial — there is abundant evidence that a very different atmosphere now prevails. The shock of defeat is being absorbed, and the gallant French race, rapidly regaining its normal poise, is reacting in a way tnat is only to be be expected against what is done in its name by the Vichy Government. The reports from neutrals who have recently left France, as well as those of French subjects, agree in showing that there is a determination not to cooperate with the Nazi conquerors and an all but universal desire to see Britain victorious.

According to the New York “Daily News,” the 19-year-old son of a United States Vice-Consul in Paris who recently arrived in America, stated in an interview that the French population “has done a complete about-face.” They were cutting telephone lines, blocking railways, and reducing the production in factories, which make goods for Germany, he said. Mile. Dolores Vanetti, a French actress who was also a passenger in the same liner, according to the New York “Herald-Tribune,” said: “The anti-British feeling has now changed to one of great admiration for the British.” She added that the French officers are increasingly accepting General de Gaulle as the leader in the cause of France and many young Frenchmen were endeavouring to join the British or Free French forces, but the regulations imposed by their German masters make an escape very difficult. It is learned in London today that 50 per cent, of the crews of two large ships which were sent to Britain by the Vichy Government to repatriate French soldiers and sailors have decided to remain to join up with General de Gaulle. A member of one crew, addressing those who were to be repatriated, said: “If you still want to live under the Boches you are welcome, but it will be without our help.” Another said: “We prefer to stay and fight. We have seen what is happening in our poor country.” The two ships arrived without lifeboats and with inadequate life-saving gear. It is now revealed that 50 French officers and 1500 ratings who were anxious to be repatriated in September have since changed their minds and joined General de Gaulle.