BRITAIN AND GERMANY [To the Editor of THE SPECTATOR.] SIR,
—It seems now generally admitted, both at home and abroad, that only a real understanding between England and Germany—not necessarily an alliance—can prevent the even- tual break-up of European civilisation, brought about by a war between rival ideologies. Time flies, war clouds show little sign of vanishing and meanwhile the two countries are gradually drifting apart. Now an understanding is possible ; next year it may be too late.
Not long ago I was the only English guest at a Franco- German Camp at Reichenhau where the youth of France and Germany there assembled expressed by means of the English language the opinion that Great Britain was the only Power able to give Europe a practical lead.
Could we not just this once act before we talk and come to an understanding with Germany before it is too late ? To German demands concerning European affairs we have turned a consistently deaf ear. Hitler, tired of waiting, has resorted to the " afpolitik " we dislike so much. But there is still hope in the Colonial field. Germany has expressed a desire for colonies. Could we not satisfy them before they satisfy themselves, which they are bound to do sooner or later ? At the moment, we have the wealth, power and influence to effect a peaceful change." We could make Germany an offer— but a mean offer would be worse than none—without sacrificing essential interests. We should gain prestige rather than lose it, and Germany would gain the prestige we know she seeks as well as economic benefits she says she needs. In a word, could we not make Germany a Mandatory Power ?
This, however, could-not be effected while the Reich remains outside the League. Preparatory and conciliatory steps would be necessary. Great Britain could withdraw the state- ment that Germany is unfit to govern native races. Could she not also publicly declare a wish and desire to separate the Treaties from the Covenant ? And further, perhaps bring to the notice of the world the unhappy plight of German minorities in Czechoslovakia and South Tirol.
But as the Austrian Chancellor, Dr. Seipel, once said : " Freundschaft berechtigt und verpflichtet." There must be give and take on both sides. National Socialism must renounce gangsterism. And no progress can be made until Hitler recon- ciles what he tells his own people—particularly the young— with what he tells the world.—Yours, &c.,
65 Chester Square, S.W.r. PETER STORRS.
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