Germans Get Advantage By Treachery

Northern Advocate, 27 April 1940, Page 9

Germans Get Advantage By Treachery

(Received 2.30 p.m.) RUGBY, April 26. The initial advantage held by the German land forces in the Norwegian campaign is one which is inevitably attached to the Power which, in defiance of international law, treacherously attacks a friendly country, Britain's immediate task was to send as speedily as possible troops, ready to hand, to support the Norwegians, who, no less, were taken unawares. Grave Difficulties. The transport, in particular presented grave difficulties owing to the fact that undeveloped ports, in little frequented fiords, with improvised facilities for landing stores and equipment, had to be employed. The first landing had, indeed, to be carried out by men with what they could personally carry. It is generally conceded by students of military affairs that, with Germany in possession of the most important ports, an immensely difficult task faced those responsible for the Allied transport arrangements. Enemy’s Advantage. Similarly, in regard to air support for the troops of the Allies, we must, ft is recognised, for the present, be at a disadvantage. Germany at once occupied five of six aerodromes in Norway, and at the same time took possession of an air base in Denmark. Meanwhile both Norwegian and Danish aerodromes are being made extremely difficult to use owing to the attacks of our Air Force, but the advantage still lies with the enemy. Allies Just in Time. Risks inherent in a campaign of this kind are apparent. The risks, however, were minimised by the speed in taking them. If the Allies had delayed action, the whole of Norway might have fallen into German hands. It was, therefore, with full recognition of the exceptional difficulties of the position, and the possibility of temporary setbacks in the early stages, that the campaign was entered upon. It is in the light of the considerations that military circles in London legard reports that certain parts of the advanced British forces are having such a difficult time. Nothing, however, has so far occurred to modify in any way the determination to press on with the campaign with the utmost vigour.