FIRM STAND

Wairarapa Times-Age, 20 April 1940, Page 5

FIRM STAND

AGAINST NAZI INVADERS VAIN EFFORTS TO COERCE NORWEGIANS. BRUTAL THREAT BY HITLER REPORTED. (British Official Wireless.) RUGBY, April 18. The* resistance of the Norwegian population, according to information reaching authoritative circles in London has surprised the Germans, who have tried every means to establish a provisional Government which would accept the German terms, and they would sacrifice the Quisling Government for this purpose. It is reliably stated that the Norwegian Minister in Berlin has beenfwice summoned by Herr Hitler, who described Norway’s attitude as incomprehensible, and declared that unless the King was immediately induced to accept the German terms he would let loose a campaign of terror which would be carried through without regard for any humanity. Direct information from Oslo since ') received indicates that the German , authorities are nervous and threatening to shoot indiscriminately unless terms are reached without delay. The Bishop of Oslo has refused to accept any appointment from the Gorman authorities and a similar refusal is likely from the Chief Justice of Norway, who has also been approached. The President of the Norwegian Parliament is reported to have urged that it is out of the question for any Norwegian in Oslo to collaborate in anything purporting to be a Norwegian Government at the dictation of the Germans. ORDERED TO LEAVE NORWEGIAN MINISTER IN GERMANY. ‘•OWING TO HOSTILE ATTITUDE OF KING HAAKON.” (Received Tins Day. 51.20 a.m.) BERLIN, April 19. The Norwegian Minister and his staff have been ordered to leave Germany within twenty-four hours, “owing to the hostile attitude of King Haakon and the former Government."