FREE AGAIN

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20954, 6 November 1939, Page 8

FREE AGAIN

THE CITY OF FLINT ACTION BY NORWAY GERMAN CREW INTERNED (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) LONDON, Nov. 4 The captured American freighter, City of Flint, anchored at Haugesund Harbour, Norway, yesterday, ostensibly so that a sick member of the American crew might be landed. A message from Washington says the State Department officially stated that the City of Flint is flying the American flag and the German crew has been interned. They were placed aboard the Norwegian minelayer Olav Tryggvason. The ship arrived flying the Stars and Stripes, says a message from Bergeh, Norway. The crew are all in good health and spirits, including the man who was alleged to be ill, and the cargo is intact. Failed to Stop The Norwegian authorities reveal that the City of Flint failed to stop when a destroyer fired a shot across her bows. The official reason for the internment of the German crew is that the vessel illegally entered Haugesund. A Norwegian Royal decree in 1938 established that a captured foreign ship could not be taken into a Norwegian port except for unseaworthiness, lack of fuel or bad weather. Captain Joseph Gainard, of the City of Flint, was in command of her when she took part in the rescue of the survivors of the Athenia. It is stated from Berlin that the Nazi authorities indicated that Germany would take a strong line with Norway. The German Charge d*Affaires at Oslo has been instructed to protest at the release of the City of Flint. Germany contends that the commander of the prize crew was the victim of his own humanitarianism, as he called at Haugesund to land a sick American. A Mere Pretext In Oslo, the German explanation is believed to be a mere pretext, and the real reason for the City of Flint’s call is not known. A Norwegian Admiralty spokesman said that while Norway was naturally concerned at Germany’s attitude she could not allow the German crew to violate Norwegian neutrality. It was announced that the vessel was free to sail when she pleased, allowed to fly the American flag, and be manned by an American crew. The Washington correspondent of the New York Times says it is suggested that the City of Flint’s cargo might be sold to Norway, enabling the ship to remain or leave according to her master’s pleasure. Some officials consider it would be best for the ship to leave at the earliest opportunity, and so avoid complications and the possibility of a clash through German pressure on Norway. Responsible officials believe that Norway acted under most careful procedure. It is not expected that the British Navy will convoy the City of Flint, but warships are certain to remain in the vicinity to guard against attacks or efforts to seize the ship again.