HC Deb 23 April 1940 vol 360 c10
71. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the breakdown of international law as affecting neutrals as the result of German action throughout the war, he will give an assurance that appropriate steps will be taken to cut off completely the further supply of Swedish iron-ore to Germany by any route?

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Butler)

His Majesty's Government are fully aware of the importance of this Question, but I am sure that the hon. Member will realise that in present circumstances I cannot give such a far-reaching assurance as he suggests.

Mr. Mander

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind in this connection the fact that the neutrality of Sweden is being daily infringed by large numbers of German aircraft which fly over Sweden?

Mr. Butler

The hon. Member will have noted the very definite statement by Sweden respecting the infringement of her neutrality.

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