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This newspaper page contains 21 articles. Subscribers can read the full text of each article.
Newspaper
Canberra Times
Location
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Date
May 20, 1940
Page
2
Moscow press on the Western Front developments forecasts Italy joining the war on Germanys side if gains are consolidated Italy would open a new front aiding the Allies Press opinion favors Italys entry as strengthening the Allies prospects
Washington reports that the Allies have asked the United States about speeding aircraft delivery by using planes in current U S Army service that will be replaced by planes nearing completion.
Prime Minister General Smuts declared neutrality a snare and delusion to several nations. He said he would fight wherever needed and that South Africa was preparing to participate in actual conflict against Germany.
A dense schedule of radio programming shows Essential Services, News, music, talks, and serials across 2FC 2BL and Sydney segments with references to Canberra and Goulburn publications. Includes morning breakfast, luncheon music, and evening concerts with multiple stations and times.
The Canberra weather record for Saturday and Sunday lists barometer readings, temperatures, wind, and rainfall. Details include 9 am and 3 pm figures, highs, lows, and a note that 22 degrees in the screen marked this winter’s low so far.
An analysis of the Allied stand against the German assault in France and Belgium. It argues the war hinges on moral resolve and civilizational stakes, noting Verdun as a symbol and urging perseverance until Allied forces prevail.
All 21 South American countries approve Uruguay’s proposal for a joint protest to Germany over the invasion of Belgium. Mention of Hound and Luxtinwuosg appears as unclear references in the text.
Belgrade reports complete mobilisation of Yugoslavia with a government decree directing all males and females aged 14 to 65 not mobilised to join the civilian army to counter the Fifth Column.
In a nationwide radio broadcast, External Affairs Minister McEwen warned that Allied defeat by Germany would condemn Australia to ruin economically and politically. He outlined German advances, Allied resilience, and the risk of Italy and Japan changing the regional balance, urging clear judgment and democratic resolve.
The article reviews Germany’s clash with Allied forces from Antwerp to Namur, noting RAF air superiority, Dutch oil losses, and looming threats in the Balkans and Switzerland. It cites Mussolini’s talks with staff and hints at Italy shifting from nonbelligerent policy as tension rises across Europe.
The Belgian government’s success in countering Fifth Column attempts is cited as a reason for English vigilance. With the German advance into France, Britain strengthens home security. Sir John Anderson directs strict alien controls and protective steps to deter any German effort to exploit civil disorder.
Australian Air Force Cadet Stan ley Calvert MacRae of Toorak, 28, was killed when a trainer aircraft crashed two miles south of Werribee during intermediate formation training at Pt Cook. Flying Officer Grant Moreland survived with abrasions and shock after the forced landing and total wreck of the plane.
Their Excellencies the Governor General and Lady Gowrie attended Divine Service at St John the Baptist Church in Canberra. The Governor of Victoria and Lady Dugan accompanied by Captain Maul Henry ADC had left Government House, as had Lady Fairfax.
Acting Information Minister Sir Henry Guillet meets the Prime Minister to discuss censorship criticism. He cites extraordinary measures and recalls wartime removals from The Times Kipling hymn. He praises Australian press responses but notes a few outlets face trouble with authorities. He vows to use National Security to curb subversive activity.
The second Australian AIF contingent arrived at Suez at dawn, eager for news from the Western Front and welcomed by staff officers and correspondents. Troopships formed up in the canal as cheering echoed across the water while veterans and new recruits prepared for camp. Major General J G MacKay said the unit bands together to become efficient quickly and that fighting may come soon.
German effort to relieve Narvik by sea from Trondheim fails as Allied warships capture or sink transports. Norwegians seize a key position to the south, slowing German retreat. A Swedish source says Narvik fighting nears end, with Allied forces tightening the noose and halting a German advance south of Mo.
The Bundav Despatch reports the former Kaiser will be allowed to return to Germany and live on one of his estates if he stays out of politics and does not make any public appearance.
A register of all Italians resident in Tyre is being compiled by Fifth Column authorities. Marshal Chakmak has left Beira for staff talks with Allied commanders in the Middle East. Foreigners are restricted to those allowed to work. others must depart by May 30 or face imprisonment.
In London, the Lord Privy Seal Mr Attlee was named deputy leader of the National Government. Prime Minister Churchill would still lead the House of Commons when possible, with Attlee ready to take the helm when needed. The move aims to preserve unity across the wartime coalition. Additional posts announced include Lord Tryon as Commissioner for Works and Frederick Montague Labouchere as Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport.
Paris reports a cabinet reshuffle with Premier St Reynaud taking War and Defence, Marsel Petain named Vice Premier, citing need to unite political and military leadership. DaladierInterior Mandel Colonies Rollan Commerce Harety also named ministers in the new lineup.
A fragmentary wartime note describes Nazi aims in Europe as Britain and the United States weigh responses. It cites the Meuse fighting in France, the Allied stance, and the need for support to Holland amid bombing and strategic pressure from German forces.
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