§ 11. Mr. Ivor Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to the appointment of a Free Danish representative at Moscow; and whether he can give any information to the House on the international position of Denmark.
§ Mr. EdenYes, Sir. I am glad to note that Free Denmark is now represented in the Soviet Union as well as in this country and in the United States. It is the policy of His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom to support all those who help in the fight against the enemy. Denmark is an enemy-occupied country. Her King regards himself as a prisoner of the Germans and her Government ceased to operate last August. It is not therefore possible at present for Denmark to become formally belligerent and join the United Nations. But it is clear that the people of Denmark as a whole are inspired by the ideals of the United Nations, many Danes are actively engaged in the ranks of the United Nations for the liberation of their country, and inside Denmark ever increasing active resistance is contributing to the common struggle against the Axis.
Last autumn representatives of various resistance bodies in Denmark formed a Committee with the name of Council of Freedom, which, pending the restoration of liberty and constitutional Government to Denmark, plays a conspicuous part in the life of occupied Denmark as a focus of resistance to the Germans. The valuable contribution which is being made to the defeat of Germany by the work of the Danish Council of Freedom and by all who contribute to resistance in Denmark is, like that of the Free Danes abroad, warmly acknowledged by His Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. SorensenHas the right hon. Gentleman any particulars he can give the House regarding the mass strike which took place in Denmark recently?