Dutch Statesman Kidnapped

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 45, 21 February 1941, Page 8

Dutch Statesman Kidnapped

t LONDON, Feb. 19. The Neherlands Government !* Investigating a report that the Germans have kidnapped and Imprisoned the fct-mer Dutch Prime Minister. Dirk Jan de Geer, because he refused to divulge information •bout Britain. It is suggested that the Nazis lured de Geer from London with a report that his wife was ill, thus making him commit a breach of loyally. De Geer is reported to have chartered a German plane at Lisbon which, instead of flying to Holland, took de Geer to Germany. De Geer formed the presort Dutch Government in June 1339 and retained the leadership until last September. He was head of the Dutch Government when the Germans invaded Holland Some time after his resignation, the Government entrusted him with a mission to the Dutch East Indies. He !ett England last November under the express condition that tne facilities granted to him were exclusively for the purpose of his mission. Subsequently the Dutch Government announced that he had returned to Hoilmi. and the Government de; :r,b*d nis conduct as a breach of loyalty and an act detrimental to the national interest.” BRITAIN BUYS ARGENTINF. BUTTER (Received 20. 12.45 p.m.> BEUNOS AIRES. Feb. 19. The British Purchasing Commisslor announced to-day that 85,000 ton* ©; Argentine butter was stored in warehouses awaiting shipment. The Commission cor’ 1 not buy more because oJ the shortage of shipping