HC Deb 01 May 1940 vol 360 cc682-3
6. Mr. Arthur Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the Danish Government were compelled by force majeureto surrender to the German armed forces, His Majesty's Government will continue to recognise the diplomatic status of the Danish Minister and his staff?

Mr. Butler

His Majesty's Government cannot maintain diplomatic relations with the Danish Government since that Government is under enemy control. Furthermore, His Majesty's own accredited representative has been expelled from Denmark. As a matter of courtesy, His Majesty's Government are continuing to accord diplomatic privileges to the Minister and his staff and are re- taining their names on the diplomatic list. Thus, while the Danish Minister will continue to act in a semi-official capacity, it will be appreciated that in present circumstances it is not possible for His Majesty's Government to recognise him as having an official status.

Mr. Henderson

Is it not only fair to the Danish Government to say that the British Minister has been expelled from Denmark by the Germans and not by the Danes?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir; that is certainly so.