ITALY PEEVED

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20727, 10 February 1939, Page 5

ITALY PEEVED

ANGLO=FRENCH ACCORD

NO ILLUSIONS HELD BITTERNESS DISPLAYED (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) LONDON, Feb. 9 The Italian Foreign Office journal Diplomatic Information says Mr Chamberlain's declaration of solidarity with France has not surprised responsible circles in Rome because he made a similar declaration during his Rome visit. The journal adds: “French antiFascists, who in exaggerated jubilation refer to Italy’s ‘consternation,’ make a gross error. Italy is not disturbed, because she has long recognised the existence of a real Anglo-French military alliance, which is naturally defensive; but there is no need for us to entertain too many illusions about its meaning.” The Times’ Rome correspondent says it is always difficult to know what importance may be attached to Diplomatic Information’s communications, which are not merely semi-official but, it is believed, are often drafted by Signor Mussolini himself. The best explanation of the present communique seems to be that it is an abrupt and spontaneous explosion corresponding to a passing mood. It betrays bitterness, suggesting that the realisation of Anglo-French military interdependence has surprised and disappointed Italy. 'The whole tone of the communique is foreign to the spirit of the Rome talks, and is accountable by supposing Signor Mussolini is piqued by the French newspaper comment. CALL TO THE COLOURS ADMINISTRATIVE MOVE ASSURANCE FROM ROME (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) LONDON, Feb. 8 The Foreign Under-Secretary, Mr R. A. Butler, was questioned in the House of Commons regarding the calling up of 60,000 men of the 1901 class in Italy. In reply he said the British Ambassador at Rome had been informed that this was purely an administrative measure without political significance. This class was the oldest class of those not engaged in the Great War, and it underwent its military training at a time when conditons wrere abnormal. It had been thought that the retraining of certain men in this class would be desirable.