FINLAND'S CONCESSION

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20953, 4 November 1939, Page 8

FINLAND'S CONCESSION

WILLING TO GIVE ISLAND WILL NOT LEASE HANKO ALL EYES ON SWEDEN (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) LONDON, Nov. 3 The Moscow correspondent of the New York Times, Mr G. E. R. Gedye, says: “Apparently Finland is willing to cede Hogland and other islands off Kronstadt, and also territory in the extreme north of Finland, but will fight rather than lease Hanko as a Soviet base. “In spite of M. Molotoff’s threats, the Finns seem to believe the Soviet will recognise that their concessions are generous, and will conclude a peaceful agreement. “Everyone is looking toward Sweden. It is felt that a definite decision that Sweden will maintain in all circumstances the solidarity of of the Scandinavian bloc would stabilise the situation and avert the possibility of a conflict. Without Denmark, the Scandinavian Powers can mobilise 1,000,000 men. Germany Exploits Situation “Germany is adroitly exploiting the situation, and is blackmailing the Scandinavians into supporting the campaign against the British blockade, but it is hardly likely the Scandinavians will be impressed by Germany’s ability to restrain Russia.” A militant attitude toward Finland was adopted by the Moscow wireless this morning. The announcer attacked the Finnish Foreign Minister. Dr. Erkko, for his speech on Wednesday. The speech, it was contended, contained an open threat of war against the Soviet. Finland’s response to a defence loan has exceeded all expectations. Already £2,000,000 has been raised and money is still pouring in. RESUMPTION DELAYED FINNISH-SOVIET TALKS MEETING OF SUPREME COUNCIL (United Press Assn. —Elec. TeL Copyright) MOSCOW, Nov. 2 The resumption of the Soviet- ; Finnish negotiations has been delayed owing to the meeting of the Supreme Council. The Finnish delegation arrived today. FINLAND’S DEFENCE LOAN CONTRIBUTIONS TOTAL £2,380,000 EXCEEDS ALL EXPECTATIONS (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) (Received Nov. 4, 3.15 p.m.) HELSINKI, Nov. 3 Contributions to the defence loan totalled £2,380,000, exceeding all expectations.