13 Dec 1940
Page 1
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Newspaper
Canberra Times
Location
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Date
Dec 13, 1940
Page
1
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Hong Kong reports talk of an early Cabinet reshuffle as the Diet nears opening. Ministers tied to pro Nazi factions face possible removal, including Matsuoka and Nomura, while Okawa buckles under cautious policy and mounting extremist dissatisfaction. Australian envoy Sir John Latham arrives Shanghai en route to Tokyo to present credentials amid supply concerns.
The Asahi newspaper in Tokyo claims a 10 million dollar fish loan to the Chungking Government signals joint Anglo American action against Japan. It says Britain will now side with the American stance, increasing pressure on Japan and strengthening support for Chungking.
London reports in the House of Commons that Italian submarines at Tangiers have not received repair authorization from the Foreign Office. Spain reportedly granted use of the port for an additional period, with government officials stressing the strategic nature of the Tangier base and monitoring of Spain and Italy.
Churchill announced 7000 Italian prisoners brought to Mersa Matruh with expectation that most of three Italian divisions may be captured. RAF and Fleet Air Arm raids targeted Bardia Sollum and Libyan airfields while bombs hit camps, transport, and aircraft dispersals. Allied naval forces bombed Italian lines of communication as retreating Italians faced heavy losses and air attacks.
Dr. Eduard Benes told the new Czecho Slovak State Council that, at his request, Britain insisted it would not recognize the Munich accord. He pledged to defend citizens and signaled possible frontiers through future negotiations as Central Europe contemplates upheaval and potential border fighting.
Prime Minister Menzies said he would discuss with the Advisory War Council measures to protect Parliament from unscrupulous newspaper attacks. He favored a permanent solution beyond the National Security Act, referencing a Hobart Mercury photo deemed fraudulent and a long‑standing committee report on contempt of Parliament.
A New Zealand sailor recounts making improvised hazardous devices from a kerosene tin with nuts razor blades and other items. He writes in a letter home from the Near East describing lore and dangers while noting Europe’s countermeasures and broader wartime context.
French pilots and anti aircraft batteries reported success against German air attacks on Britain. The Free French Press cites naval units and the battleship Courbet aiding defense with anti air fire and downing multiple enemy planes. Two French pilots are noted for each shooting down eight German planes.
In Washington, Jesse Jones of the Export–Import Bank says no loan to Britain is imminent until Congress authorizes new legislation. He notes that a 60 million dollar loan is being made to Argentina to promote trade, while Uruguay will receive 7.6 million dollars.
Minister for the Navy Mr Hughes reported H M A S Australia penetrated Dakar harbour defences and exploded depth charges beneath the Richlieu. Seagull plane crew Lisut Commander Fogerty and Leading Telegraphist Bunnett were killed.
The article notes strained exchanges between Dr Evatt and Mr Cur, with differences over party stance described as bound to cause friction. It mentions possible appointment of a minister in the near future and hints at ongoing cabinet shifts.
Hatred of the Nazis is strong and universal that Signor Mussolini would risk ryan then on severely by the R.A.F. raid on Taranto.
A Daily Telegraph report describes how price control affects commodities in England. It notes grocers paying controlled wholesale prices face bribes and unpatriotic households seeking double or triple the official price, with lemons example and bribes to wholesalers.
An investigation into damage to an overseas vessel underway in port is planned for Saturday night. Officials say temporary repairs may be made while the steamer remains in its present position.
Athens reports Greek forces capturing new heights in Tremeti and repulsing Italian counter-attacks as Italy rushes reinforcements to Devol. Despite bad weather, Greeks extend their line while Italians try to prevent moves to valleys. a Greek destroyer refit is noted with RAF backing.
The All-Party Committee backed amendments to the Wartime Company Tax, aiming to raise over £6,000,000 this year. Public companies with profits above £1,000 face a sliding scale up to 60 percent, with exemptions for private firms and some life insurers. An average rate for primary producers and a potential super tax on larger companies are outlined, along with an independent Board of Referees to guide discretionary cases.
Lord Lothian died at 3 a.m. at the British Embassy after three days of illness. He was unable to speak in Baltimore when his address was read to the American Farm Bureau Association. The coroner delayed announcing the death for five hours without details.
Reports circling Prime Minister Menzies suggest a possible trip to Taunton for talks with the British Government and then on to London. Political circles think he may aim for a rapid English visit during recess to handle matters needing his personal attention.
A Domeli telegram reports at least 20 uprisings within 100 miles of Saigon in the week to November 26 amid growing Japanese pressure and Thai tensions. Saigon air strikes target trouble centres daily while locals accuse French troops of shooting natives near Saigon on November 22. French authorities impose a censor to hinder Japanese infiltration.
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