Germans and Czechs Since the peace of Central Europe, and
perhaps all Europe, may depend on the relations between the German-speaking population of Czechoslovakia and the Government of that country, considerable importance attaches to the negotia- tions on the subject now in progress in Prague, of which a Prague correspondent of the Manchester Guardian gave interesting particulars on Wednesday. Of the three million or more Germans in Czechoslovakia some 70 per cent. supported Herr Konrad Henlein at the last election. Herr Henlein declares that he is not a Nazi, but he enjoys the marked favour of Berlin, and by sounding the nationalist note loud enough he can make matters very difficult for the 3o per cent. of Germans who stand for co-operation with Dr. Hodza's Government. On the other hand, if the minority can obtain by negotiation much of what the majority are demanding, the position of the extremists will be considerably weakened. That is what seems likely to happen. The main points at issue are proportional representation in State services, more concessions in regard to education and the official use of the German language, and certain minority complaints. Prospects of a settlement seem hopeful.
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