Scandinavian Seamen’s Protest

Northern Advocate, 21 February 1940, Page 5

Scandinavian Seamen’s Protest

(Received 2 p.m.) RUGBY, February 19. A commentary on the tendaci'ous outbursts by the Nazis against Britain's alleged violation of international law and of the right of neutral countries in regard to the Altmarck case is contained in a resolution of Norwegian unions presented to the Norwegian Foreign Secretary, Professor Koht, on February 16. “Acting on the information in our possession, we have resolved to protest, with the greatest indignation, against the form of sea warfare which is now being waged and which seems to have as its prime object the terrorisation of neutral ships. “We also wish to express our disappointment at the prevailing powerlessness in the face of demands that international law should be respected. “Neutral shipping nations seem to know of no means of demanding a cessation in the massacre of shipping. “The number of sinkings which have recently taken place must be condemned as demonstrably conflicting with international law and human feeling. Shot at Crew. “In this connection we will mention the Sonja, which, when proceeding from America to a neutral port in Europe, was sunk far out in the Atlantic, the crew being driven out into open boats in mid-winter. “We will also mention the sinking of the Tempo as the most monstrous thing that can be imagined. This ship was proceeding on a neutral voyage when it was attacked by German aeroplanes, which, not content with sinking the ship, went so far as to shoot at the crew when they got into the boats. So much has been proved by official inquiry.

Cannot be Frightened. “From official inquiries into the sinking of the Enid, it is also apparent that the crew were exposed to gunfire after they had got into their boats. It may, perhaps, be possible' to destroy Norwegian shipping, but ft is impossible to frighten them into staying on the land. “We can urge upon members not to go in ships which carry cargo to a belligerent Power that has declared itself proud of war and of aimlessly murdering defenceless seamen. “Seamen’s organisations are resolved further to demand that the authorities give due attention to the war on our merchant ships when trade agreements are concluded, and to ensure that, in future, seamen will not be exposed to the illegal warfare which is now in progress.” Norway so far has lost, it is believed in London, 47 ships and 270 lives as a result of German action.