NAZI AIMS SHOWN

Wairarapa Times-Age, 14 July 1941, Page 7

NAZI AIMS SHOWN

— ■ ANNEXATION OF HOLLAND. CONFIRMATION OF EARLIER REPORTS. Travellers from Holland confirm reports that the Germans are aiming at the complete annexation of Holland as a “sea province” of Germany; indeed, the phrase “Seegau Holland” already appears on some official buildings, says a correspondent of the “Sunday Times.” The German propagandist, Freiherr von Prel, after an extensive journey through the Netherlands, has published a report, reproduced in all the Dutch newspapers, proving that the Dutch people are part of the “greater German race” and declaring that they are adapting themselves exceptionally well to the new ideologies and new economics. The old Dutch liberalism and world trade tendencies, he affirms, are slowly disappearing and the people are switching over to the new German ideas, while the old political parties are either merging into the State party or disappearing.

New administrative measures confirm the attempt at complete “Germanisation” of the State organisation. The Dutch Nazi Party is being encouraged and protected, officers from the former Dutch Army and Reconstruction Corps are being drafted into (S.S. and S.A. corps, and the German system of block-leaders and district leaders is being introduced for every community. It is clear, however, that the population wholeheartedly resents and wherever possible boycotts these German moves and is striving obstinately to maintain its individuality and independence. This has been admitted by Mussert, the Dutch Quisling, when he declared that the people were swayed between two opinions—that they would regain their freedom through a British victory, and that Holland would secure a great future by participating in German “reconstruction" after Britain’s capitulation. Discussing this statement, the antirevolutionary newspaper “Standard” confirms that there is an intense difference of opinion on means by which freedom shall be regained, but no diversity of view in the desire for liberty. ' It advises the people to cease discussing ways and means “until we know who is going to win the war. The “Standard” goes on to declare, fearlessly and clearly, that on no account must the Dutch collaborate with Germany. The majority of the people, it .is clear, have full confidence in British victory. They ignore and despise German lies and propaganda, and draw their information from 8.8. C. broadcasts which, are eagerly and secretly listened to.