ITALIAN FORCES IN ALBANIA

Wairarapa Times-Age, 5 December 1940, Page 7

ITALIAN FORCES IN ALBANIA

Greeks Pressing Forward Methodically ARGYROKASTRON IN DANGER OF BEING 1 CUT OFF REPORTED IMPROVEMENT IN WEATHER The Greek forces are now nearing the Adriatic coast at Santa Quaranta and also the important Italian base of Argyrokastron, which is in danger of being cut off a 8.8. C. .broadcast states. Unofficial reports say that the Greek artillery is pounding Italian positions all along the line from the Adriatic coast to Yugoslavia, preparatory to a further advance. The weather is improving and this is facilitating the Greek operations. The Greeks have captured important stocks of food. On the northern front the Italian rearguard is being severely mauled and heavy losses have been inflicted on Black Shirt units thrown in by the enemy. On the central front the Greeks have taken an important position from which their artillery commands the Italian defences. Greek aircraft have continued to bomb enemy bases and communications and a communique speaks enthusiastically of the support given to the Greek troops by R.A.F. planes. It is now confirmed that British planes destroyed four Italian planes in Albania on Monday and not two as was reported earlier. Cardinal Hinsley, Catholic Archbishop of Westminster, has denounced Italy’s indiscriminate slaughter of non-combatants by air attack, saying that the voice of Christians condemns such savagery wherever it is practised. The cardinal said he found it difficult to believe that the Italian people approved the deeds of their Air Force. 1