W 755
Weekly London Letter.
By Andrew Blackmore.
16.
83
Britain and Danzig,
The coplaint has sometimes
cormit
been made that Britain does not
herself definitely to any course of policy in international
affairs until a crisis has been reached. That reproach can certainly
not be levelled against the British Government in connexion with
Danzig.
Recent occurrences have given rise to fears that Germany intends
to settle the future status of the Free City "by unilateral action, organised by surreptitious methods, thus presenting Foland and other Fowers with a fait accompli". Any change in the status of Danzig
would certainly affect the independence and national existence of Poland, and should Poland take any action to assert her rights and
restore the situation, the Nazi Government would then most probably
represent this to the German people as an act of aggression.
Great
It is admitted that the present position of Danzig, though
neither basically unjust nor illogical, might be capable of improve-
ment."
Poland is prepared to discuss methods of improvement.
Britain would strongly support any effort to compose whatever
differences there may be.
Herr Hitler declared months ago that he would"welcome" a fresh agreement with Foland, but he has taken no steps to come to an
agreement by discussion and negotiation.
threats and demonstrations of armed force.
All we have seen are
To these ir. Chamberlain
"We have has given Great Britain's definite and determined reply. guaranteed to give our assistance to Poland in the event of a clear threat to her independence which she considers it vital to resist
with her national forces, and we are firmly resolved to carry out
this undertaking." Ho avenue to negotiation has been closed; but any attempt by the ilazi Government to seize Danzig by force will be
met with force.
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