Sign of the Times

Switzerland, traditional sanctuary for Europe's political refugees, has locked the door. The Federal Council has issued new instructions, announced that henceforth "foreigners unworthy of asylum because of despicable acts or of their activities or attitudes violating Swiss interests are in no case to be admitted."

From Voltaire to Lenin, Europe's political exiles have found a haven in Switzerland. Recent notable refugees: Novelist Thomas Mann, running away from the Nazis in 1933; Countess Galeazzo (Edda Mussolini) Ciano, running away from the Allies and Nazis this year.

Switzerland's new restrictions are presumably aimed at Nazis and Vichyites. Frontier officials will rule on the admittance of small fry only: women, children, ordinary soldiers. Entry qualifications of foreign big shots will be decided by the Federal Council itself.

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