19 Feb 1940
Page 1
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This newspaper page contains 14 articles. Subscribers can read the full text of each article.
Newspaper
Canberra Times
Location
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Date
Feb 19, 1940
Page
1
British and Norwegian authorities contended over the capture of the Altmareie after a Baltic sea action. A Royal Navy destroyer withdrew from Norwegian waters. a British boarding party transferred 300 to 400 prisoners to the Cossack and another vessel.
A Norwegian communique reports the Altmarck entering joint waters escorted by a Norwegian torpedo boat when a shot was fired at it. The Altmarck resisted pursuit, boarding the Cossack and taking prisoners. Conditions aboard the Altmarck and aboard the Cossack are described as brutal with limited water, scarce food, and harsh discipline.
Report from Leith describes sailors landing with an improvised carry of supplies as a warship battles offshore. The crowd protests the scene while the Altmarck hospital ward reports fifty British crew suffering stomach issues from three months aboard. Prisoner accounts detail harsh conditions, attempted escapes, and German guards imposing punishment as Norwegian authorities investigate, with warnings of harsh treatment and drownings to suppress information.
The Altmarck faction clashed with the Nagi crew near Seppler, freeing about 400 detainees. After heavy combat, the Altmarck reportedly damaged facilities, with Navy support and Allied radios praising Captain Vion's actions.
The Ministry of Finance and the Commonwealth Government agreed to a grant for wool manufacturing exports. The arrangement provides for Japan to purchase 28,000 bales of merino wool per year, about 800 tons, under the program.
London reports detail a British boarding party intercepting the Altmark as German tensions rose. A Norwegian commander claimed authority from the government and allowed British prisoners aboard while negotiations continued. Firing occurred as the Comack crew attempted actions, with wounded aboard and the captain forced toward safety.
York Times correspondent notes official comment lacking on U M 8 and Altmark actions in Norwegian waters. British and American observers discuss potential for tougher Norway diplomacy as Admiralty cites imminent ship destruction orders and 100 German crew aboard. Norwegian government protests and Germany demands restoration of status quo and compensation, warning of grave consequences.
Trade data from London for the month reveals a substantial rise in imports and exports. Figures indicate stronger export activity across most sectors with notable gains compared to January. The report credits improved domestic demand and global demand in sustaining the advance.
Terrific air raids hit towns as the Russian push nears the Mannerheim Line. The furthest Russian penetration is about five miles beyond the line, which defenders claim is stable at depths of ten to twenty miles. Finnish forces hold firm despite intense bombardment and ongoing operations.
A cyclone rages across North Queensland severing communications from Cairns to Cardwell and cutting power and phone lines. Cairns, Lucinda Point, and Ingham report isolation and extensive damage as the system centers move south and threaten safety of several towns.
London reports neutral protests across Denmark Norway and Denmark over Germanys submarine warfare. Norway and Denmark demand explanations and compensation as allied ships suffer. Severe weather and cyclone damage hit Townville and Port towns, with floods and storms causing widespread destruction and hospital closures.
A one year old boy from Belevue HU was killed when a pea rifle discharged during play at his cousin John Todman’s home in Ollie. Police say the child was visiting family and was struck in the chest by a bullet from the improvised weapon.
Finland criticizes Sweden after Stockholm refuses military assistance. The Sunday dispatch from Helsinki notes disappointment as Nordic support for Finland wanes and urges that peace through arms could be pursued no longer.
A fragmented notice from George Street Sydney shows a hospital fund appeal listing two donors. It mentions payment of £800 in money and property connected to the fund, though the exact details are incomplete.
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