Italian Cabinet Changes
Some of the changes which have been made in the per- sonnel of the Italian Cabinet are probably designed to strengthen Signor Mussolini's hold on all departments of the Government, and do not necessarily reflect a change in policy. The offices of Secretary-General of the Fascist Party and of Minister of Popular Culture (or propaganda) are key positions ; their recent holders, Signor Starace and Signor Alfieri, have for some time been disposed to take matters into their own hands, and they now find themselves transferred to other posts. The fact that they are identified with a pro- German policy, which is not favoured by popular opinion nor at the moment desired by the Duce, has made it the easier for him to dispense with their services in the offices they have held. But the changes, if not caused by policy, do at least show that Signor Mussolini is not moving away from his attitude of neutrality or offering comfort to the Axis stalwarts The progress with the Greco-Italian pact of friendship and non-aggression is another indication of his desire to conform to the status quo in the Mediterranean ; the British Government has been kept fully informed about all stages of the negotiations. There is no doubt that the Italian people are passionately desirous for peace. The Duce appears to be more in touch with popular feelings than some members of his recent Cabinet.
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