AID FOR NORWEGIANS

Manawatu Standard, Volume LXV, Issue 2, 30 November 1944, Page 6

AID FOR NORWEGIANS

.«. REJECTION BY GERMANS. (N.Z. Press Association.—Copyright.) (Rec. 11.45 a.m.) LONDON, Nov. 29. uerniany has rejected a Swedish proposal that the inliabitants ol Northern Norway be evacuated to Sweden, and [Sweden has refused a request from the Norwegian Quisling Government for the evacuation of Norwegians via Sweden to Southern Norway. Sweden insisted that the refugees remain in Sweuen. 'lne Associated Press Stockholm correspondent at Stockholm reports that the Foreign Minister (M. u anther) informed Parliament of these decisions today. 'l'Aie correspondent added that Swedish public opinion has been aroused by the Nazi policy of terror and scorched earth in Northern Norway. Some sections uf the Press have demanded a virtual break with Germany unless she acquiesces in the Swedish effort to help the Norwegians.

After M. Gunther's statement a delegation from all the Swedish parties asked the Government to do everything to help the Norwegians, even if it means taking the greatest risk.

Along the sole highway leading from Kirkenes to Mosjon, 900 miles to the south, civilians are fleeing on foot before the German troops retreating from the Russians, according to the Norwegian Telegraph Agency, quoting a man who lett Tromso a fortnight ago.

Thousands of Norwegians have already died and thousands more face certain death. S.S, men are following the refugees, burning the countryside. 'J hev are shooting Norwegians refusing to leave.

Tromso, which is the most important city in Northern Norway, is due for destruction. The Germans are reported to aim to devastate before Christmas all of Norway north of Mosjon, where they intend to make a stand. The railway reaches Mosjon, therefore the Germans can rely on supplies from the south.