Communists in Italy
The decision of the leader of the Italian Communists, Signor Toglietti, to enter Marshal Badoglio's government, and his willing- ness to postpone for the present the issue of King Victor Emmanuel's abdication, is an interesting and important development—the more so since it follows so soon on Signor Toglietti's return from exile at Moscow. It may or may not be associated with the recent and regrettable unilateral action of the Soviet Government in appointing what is virtually an Ambassador to the Badoglio government. The proposal that the question of the monarchy should be postponed, and that in the meantime the Government should gain strength and authority through the support of the popular parties if they can combine, is not agreeable to the supporters of Count Sforza, who are naturally dis-
inclined to reverse their policy on orders from Moscow, but none the less it would make the transition stage easier without prejudice to a democratic settlement later if Signor Toglietti's advice were taken. The real difficulties arise not from what the Soviet Govern- ment has done, but because it has taken action without consulting the Allies. What is supremely important for the future of Europe is that relations should be established with Russia such that we know her mind and she knows ours, so that obstacles may be removed to agreement upon a common policy. Abundant machinery for con- sultation exists in the Advisory Councils in London and in Italy, in addition, of course, to the usual diplomatic channels.
