NEWS OF TILE WEEK
'THE declarations made by Signor Mussolini at Bolzano on Wednesday change the international situation in no respect. In declaring that Italy would react with vigour against any attempt by other nations to impose sanctions on her in the event of her attack on Abyssinia, the Duce is saying only what at this juncture he could not avoid saying, and what hig corps of dependent journalists has been saying on his instructions for weeks. That Italy will present at Geneva the case she has obdurately declined to present so far is something, provided it is not used simply as an excuse for further delay while Italy completes her military preparations. The assurance that no British interest is threatened by Italy's projected action. betrays a psychological incapacity to understand this country's position, springing no doubt from inability to conceive that a nation could be inspired in international affairs by principle and a regard for pledges. The proceed- ings of the Italian Cabinet, in short, were considerably less important than the proceedings of the French Cabinet, Which met on the same day. What was decided in Paris is not known. Pretty certainly nothing was. But it is significant that M. Laval should be taking with him to Geneva such.. able, experienced and loyal supporters of the League of Nations as M. Herriot and M. Paul-Boncour.
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