IMMEDIATE

Broadcast to Italy. [1] 'Times' of 1st May publishes on the main
page report from correspondent at Rome 30th April.

(Begins) Mr. Menzies, the Australian Prime Minister, has not found
in Italy a favourable reply to his broadcast speech. He is blamed
for defining as a neutral an Italy who is not to be considered as
standing outside the war; who after eighteen years of Fascism and
three victorious wars does not like to hear herself referred to as
the peaceful heir to the warlike Rome of old and as devoted solely
to the arts; and who is determined to defend her own interests and
in particular to [sic] the struggle for her freedom in the
Mediterranean. (Ends).

Following is from the 'Daily Sketch'.

(Begins) 'Italy is not neutral; she has her interests to defend
and does not consider herself outside this conflict of nations'.

This statement is made in the 'Giornale d'Italia' quoted by
Reuters, the only paper to print friendly references to Italy by
Mr. Menzies, the Australian Prime Minister. 'Italy is prepared to
fight by all means in her power for her liberty, the freedom of
the Mediterranean', it added. (Ends).

Following is from the 'Daily Express'.

(Begins) The 'Giornale d'Italia', Italy's number one newspaper,
today answers a speech made by Australian Premier Menzies
yesterday by saying: 'Italy is prepared to fight with every ounce
of her power for her liberty, for the freedom of the
Mediterranean.' Mr. Menzies opening a news in Italian service by
the Sydney radio appealed to the Italians for their sympathy for
the democracies' struggle for freedom and civilization. He
referred to Italy's 'neutrality'. 'But', says the 'Giornale
d'Italia', 'Italy is not neutral. Allied with Germany she has her
vital interests to defend. And she is rebuilt and reorganized in
such a way as to be able to defend them victoriously.' (Ends).

The B.B.C. in news broadcast this morning referred to the Italian
press reactions.

The German Transocean broadcast also includes long summary of
'Giornale d'Italia' statement which it says '[vehemently] [2]
criticized the speech of the Australian Premier Menzies.' [3]

STIRLING