London, Oct. 3.
An official German declaration that the invasion of Britain has been shelved has been made to Japanese torresspondents in Berlin, Reuters' Diplomatic correspondent learns.
The declaration took the form of a statement that Germany's military and diplomatic position has been so strengthened by the new pact with Japan that there is no longer any necessity of hurrying with the invasion plans.
Many British experts were long convinced that Germany would think twice before launching an assault on the British Isles, but the excuse for holding off does not carry conviction, the correspondent continues.
One of the finest summers in living memory should have favoured German plans if the Royal Air Force and the British Navy and army could have been ignored.
But there are other implications n the German statement. If Germany has been strengthened, it is obviously not against Britain. As in the case of the German guarantee to despoiled Rumania, the menace could only come from Russia. The next few days should help to clarify the position whether Germany, by virtue of her increased strength, is to threaten Russia or woo her.
The existing uncertainty on the issue may explain the mystery wi ich is being observed about the mov ments of Herr Joachim von Ribbentrop, German Foreign Minister. The German assertion that he is "visiting" in a country near Berlin lacks conviction.—Reuter.
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