DIFFICULTIES IN NORWAY

Dominion, Volume 33, Issue 185, 2 May 1940, Page 9

DIFFICULTIES IN NORWAY

Liberal Leader Critical Of Defeatism QUESTIONS ASKED OF GOVERNMENT By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. LONDON, April 30. The Opposition Liberal Leader, Sir Archibald Sinclair, in a speech, deplored the defeatist attitude of some British people and he asked the reason for articles, apparently inspired, suggesting that the British forces should be evacuated from Norway. Sir Archibald Sinclair expressed the opinion that evacuation from southern and central Norway would only be justifiable if the military situation was beyond repair. “The country is entitled to know,” he said, “whether the troops sent were highly-trained regulars with experienced officers and adequate equipment and if they were, why was the British counter-stroke so slow in coming?” (Received May 1, 7.5 p.m.) WNDON, April 30. Further' in his speech Sir Archibald Sinclair said: “The British will not complain if the Government moves stealthily and strikes Germany without warning,” and he asked: “Is it true that while Mr. Ghainberlain was warning Sweden and Norway of the approaching danger he was ordering the dispersal of the force that was ready for Finland? “The false prophecies: ‘Hitler has missed the bus. We have turned the corner. We are now 10 times more confident than six months ago,’ remind me of the prophecy ‘Munich meant peace in our time.” “Highest Importance.” The “Daily Mail” in a leading article headed, “Fight or Withdraw?” says “Sir Archibald Sinclair’s speech is of the highest importance. It throws into relief the gravity of affairs in Norway, where the Allied position is critical. If the Germans’ claims are correct our tenure of central and southern Norway is seriously compromised. The Chiefs of Staff must decide. No question of political reputation can influence the decision. “Sir Archibald Sinclair raised questions of the organization of the campaign. They are being asked elsewhere. “The Tinies” says: “The serious nature of the Norwegian news is undeniable. It cannot be disguised that the British communications with Andalsnes are likely to become difficult.”