Dr. Adenauer's Plans
Political developments in Germany are taking their expected course. The idea of a coalition between Christian Democrats and Social Democrats is rejected by both panics, and it is clear that the Government about to be formed will rest on the Christian Democrats, the Free Democrats and one or more of the smaller parties of the Right. It will command a majority in the Diet, small but sufficient in view of the improbability of the non-Government parties ever voting together as a bloc. The Opposition will consist of the Social Democrats, with nothing but occasional and incalculable support to swell their 131 votes. In view of the virtual certainty that he will be the first Chancellor of the West German State considerable importance attaches to the statements Dr. Adenauer made to a Press conference on Tuesday. That he should be at pains to try to dispel the unfortunate impression manifestations of nationalism during the election campaign created outside Germany is natural enough. They must, as he said, not be taken too tragically; but they must not be taken too lightly. His criticism of the Allies' dismantling policy is equally natural, though Mr. Hoffman's observations pn that point on Monday may have some restraining effect. The most important part of Dr. Adenauer's statement was his claim to a new place in Europe for Germany under her new Government. That does not go at all beyond what is reasonable. Relations with the West German Government will obviously need careful and skilful handling so long as the occupation, and all the restraints it involves, con- tinues. But the Allies have chosen their policy—undoubtedly the right policy—and they cannot decline to face its consequences. Germans arc often difficult to deal with, and they will not cease suddenly to be difficult now. But having been given a Government they must be assured that that Government will be treated with duo respect. Germany's future course is still undecided. Dr. Adenauer has already raised questions on which full agreement with the Allies must be difficult to reach. The essential thing is to create an atmosphere of goodwill and confidence on both sides. Germans and Allies alike must lay themselves out for that.
