London, Nov. 9.
As the peace appeal of the Netherlands and Belgian sovereigns was addressed to the King, it would, in accordance with protocol, have to be referred to the British Government for consideration before any reply can be considered, states Reuters Diplomatic Correspondent. The French Government will also have to be consulted. Consequently, some days must elapse before any definite reply can be given.
It is now revealed that the proposal came with complete surprise to official quarters in London, where no indication had been received that such a step was impending.
"Whether the Belgian and Dutch initiative is promoted by a desire to give indisputable evidence of their neutrality in face of recent German press charges to the contrary, or whether it is a result of pressure due to the menace of German concentrations on the frontier, is not clear, but it is pointed out that in either case it establishes a strong claim to the moral support of world opinion.
In commenting on the appeal, "The Times" in a leading article, says, "Our minimum terms are stereotyped in the Premier's words: Our purpose is well known. It is to redeem Europe from the perpetual recurring fear of German aggression, ana to enable the peoples of Europe to preserve their independence and liberties, "It is certain that in no circumstances could this declaration of policy be compromised, and it is necessary to add that we are pledged not to treat peace without the participation of the Government of Poland.
"It is no reflection on the disinterested character of the desire for peace of the King and Queen to surmise that the moment chosen may have some connection with current rumours of danger to the neutrality of their countries.
"Bach has been ominously accused by German propaganda of unneutral conduct, one in tolerating a free press which "dares to criticize German hey, and the other in acquiescing the exercise by Britain of blockade rights allowed by international law.
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Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.