[Fodor, Marcell William], Basle, Switzerland. Memorandum on Belgium and Luxemburg.
Date
1939-07-23
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Enclosed with No. 1266. Spent three weeks in Belgium; was unable to interview King, but talked with some of his staff; Count P. de la Capelle expressed optimism; Belgium vulnerable but he thought would not be invaded; King determined on independence; in April 1937 France and England offered unilateral guarantee of Belgian independence and in Oct. of same year Germany made same offer; head of present government, Hubert Pierlot, a mere "yes" man of King, knows nothing of foreign politics; [Paul Henry] Spaak former Prime Minister supports King's policy; Emile Hamhresine, newspaper man, would have Belgium seek firmer alliances with England and France at same time increasing her fortifications; spent short while in Luxemburg and talked with Josef Beck, Minister of State; Luxemburg, between German and French fortifications, leads uncomfortable existence and could become battlefield; Beck hoped German need of Luxemberg's iron ore would prevent an attack through that country.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.