THE HORRORS OF WAR

Waikato Times, Volume 122, Issue 20512, 31 May 1938, Page 9

THE HORRORS OF WAR

THE BOMBING OF CIVILIANS NEED FOR INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENT MAIMING AND DEATHS OF DEFENCELESS PEOPLE (Official Wireless) (Received May 31, 1 p.m.) RUGBY, May 30 Public dismay at news from Spain and the Far East on the heavy civilian casualties as a result of aerial bombing was reflected in questions addressed in the House of Commons to Mr Neville Chamberlain. The Premier was asked what steps had been taken to give effect to the unanimous resolution of the House of Commons on February 2 declaring that the growing horror at the aerial bombardment of defenceless civilians should be expressed in an international agreement to co-operate in its prohibition. The Government reply stated that the question was being most carefully studied by the departments concerned, with a view to overcoming the many technical and legal difficulties involved, but it has not yet reached a form in which it could advantageously he submitted to the other Governments. “At the same time,” said Mr Chamberlain, “Britain has not failed to make clear its views about the bombardment of civilian populations, and has approached France and the Vatican.” Answering supplementary questions, Mr Chamberlain said that what was desired was an international agreement. It was no use putting before other Governments crude or unprepared proposals on a matter which gave rise to very great difficulties. The Government was seeking to get a proposition into a form in which it would have a chance of acceptance by other Governments, and when it succeeded it would be in a position to invite other Governments to consider the proposal.