NEWS OF THE WEEK
THOUGH much still remains to be told about the tragic sequence of events in Greece,-enough is now known for certain to establish several conclusions. First, British policy and the action of Greek forces in Attica prevented the accomplishment of a cruel and bloody coup (feta!, and enabled a firm Greek Government to be set up ender the Regency. Secondly, British policy has influenced that Government, now in a strong position, to negotiate with the Communist leaders and to adopt an attitude of conciliation—a really remarkable achievement in view of the bitterness of feeling on both sides. Much credit is also due to the intervention of Sir Walter Citrine. There is now the prospect of a settlement without proscription or a too close inquiry into the past misdeeds of some of the E.L.A.S. leaders. The Communist delegates of E.L.A.S. have argued their case in Athens and have agreed to .disagree, but have accepted the Government's amnesty proposals, as set forth in a memorandum, and have been pursuing final discussions about the details of putting it into effect. In view of the violent feeling aroused by the atrocities committed by the rebels the Government made no small concession when it offered full amnesty for all political crimes committed since December 3rd, excepting only common law crimes, which are to be tried by special appeal courts. Probably E.L.A.S. realised that it was fortunate to get terms as good as it has secured. Having accepted the Government's offer in principle, it entered into further conference to discuss details of the prosecution, the disbandment of E.L.A.S., the formation of a new army, and the position of the Government in the period pending the elections. What seemed impossible a few weeks ago appears to have been achieved, and the way is opened for an ultimate appeal on all these questions to the people of Greece.
