762.63/181
The Ambassador in Germany (Dodd) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 17.]
Sir: In continuation of despatch No. 531 of February 16, 1934,18 I have the honor to report that, as might well have been expected, every effort was made here to minimize the importance of the joint statement made by Italy, France, and England,19 to the effect that the independence of Austria should be maintained in accordance with the existing treaties.
The outstanding event in Austro-German relations in the past fortnight has been Habicht’s radio broadcast of February 19, in which he asked the Austrian Government whether, in view of the casualties of the recent “catastrophe” and the terrible possibilities which it opened up for the future, it intended to adhere to the course it has followed thus far or whether it was prepared “to seek the way to a better German future together with the Nazi movement, i. e., with the people.” As an earnest of the Nazi desire for peace, Habicht issued an order to all members of the party decreeing a truce “from Tuesday, February 20, until noon of Wednesday, February 28.” During this period all members of the party are forbidden, under penalty of exclusion, to attack the Austrian Government by word or deed, the only activity permitted them being propaganda vis-à-vis former members [Page 24] of the Social Democratic Party to induce them to join the Nazi Party, and acts of self-defence.
It is interesting to note that, according to reports in the foreign press, the accounts of this speech were withdrawn from the German news service in the course of the night. As a matter of fact, the news item appeared in none of the Berlin press, but it was discovered in the National Zeitung of Essen. Rumors that Habicht had been removed as Nazi leader for Austria were officially denied. To have taken such action would have meant a loss of prestige. I hear confidentially, however, that his public utterances are to be censored in future. I am confidentially informed that Mussolini has conveyed word to the Chancellor that Habicht should be kept quiet.
In various cities meetings of the Austro-German Kampfring were held. According to speakers at these meetings, the association numbered 10,000 members in Germany.
Needless to say, the German press is strongly opposed to the reestablishment of a Habsburg monarchy in Austria, and all evidence of opposition thereto abroad is welcomed by the Deutsches Nachrichtenbüro.
Respectfully yours,