ENEMY PROPAGANDA LIES

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21219, 16 September 1940, Page 6

ENEMY PROPAGANDA LIES

People in British countries have no doubt frequently asked themselves how much credence they can give to stories from enemy countries. That very element of doubt illustrates the value to the enemy of insidious propaganda. Fortunately for New Zealand and the Empire, the enemy sometimes proves his falsehoods out of his own mouth and shows to British people that it is unwise to place the slightest reliance upon German or Italian propaganda stories. Such an instance is provided by a broadcast from Rome which alleged that revolt in New Zealand had dislocated the country and caused the retention in the Dominion of troops who were intended for overseas service.

It must be supposed that if the whole world were searched no country would be found which is farther from revolt than is New Zealand. Yet there it is; one of the two great enemy belligerents solemnly informs the world that Wellington is in the throes of a revolt. That is typical of the enemy’s propaganda tactics. Although the stories are utterly ridiculous they must be treated seriously. Perhaps people in countries to which New Zealand is not familiar may be caused at least to wonder if Rome’s lie is not the truth. If they do, Rome will have achieved one of its purposes—to spread fear, doubt and panic. Of course the stories can be denied, but a lie is always difficult to overtake with the truth if it is given a start. The incident is a striking illustration of the need for the British people, and neutrals, to treat enemy propaganda with the contempt it deserves. It is positively dangerous to believe anything from enemy sources. In British countries the people have wisely been left free to listen to anything that may be broadcast in any country. That is a tribute to their common sense. Since they may listen to any broadcast it is well that occasionally the enemy should so utterly betray himself. If Rome can broadcast such a stupid lie, why should New Zealanders believe any allegation concerning other countries ? It is a matter for pride that British people are able and ready to hear enemy lies and cast them back in the teeth of their originators. It would be a poor compliment to them if they allowed themselves to be panicked by such simple trickery.