859.01/141: Telegram

The Minister in Sweden (Johnson) to the Secretary of State

1031. There seems no doubt that great majority of Danish people will be pleased and heartened by joint British-American declaration along lines indicated Department’s 486, March 23, 5 p.m. This is a subject often mentioned by visiting Danes and Legation has heard practically no adverse comment. Formula outlined telegram under reference not only presumably meets various practical objections from American viewpoint, such as avoiding question of recognizing any particular Danish group abroad, but also appears hardly likely to offend even the most timid members anti-Nazi national front in Denmark, such as certain non-activist Social Democrats who perhaps fear that such a declaration might compromise their future Nordic independence.

King Christian’s probable reaction (mentioned Department’s 457, January 18, 10 p.m., to London13) has occasionally come up in discussions with visiting Danes, and though their views have differed, consensus of opinion seemed to be that King would be definitely pleased, though if asked in advance might answer that this was rather question for political parties to express judgment on. Suggested secret Allied message to King appears wise step in this connection.

Regarding maintenance Danish Legation Berlin (mentioned London’s 589, January 21, 7 p.m. to Department13) following may be observed. Germans obviously wish this to continue as part their propaganda regarding present Danish administrative regime (compare page 2 to memorandum enclosed despatch 2574, December 1114) and would therefore regard its closing as Danish provocation, even though Legation seems to be performing no actual functions. Some observers fear Germans might reply by closing down foreign legations still functioning Copenhagen including the Swedish which latter would be a great blow to the Danes.

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Finally, it is suggested that in order to achieve maximum effect proposed declaration should emphasize idea “Allies in all but name” and reasons why Danish people are so regarded, only incidentally referring to anniversary of April 9th. For on this day Danish thoughts will be so dominated by memories German occupation 4 years ago and what has since been experienced that otherwise declaration’s significance might be lost on many Danes particularly in view of false rumors15 circulated some weeks ago (compare airgram A–97 January 26, 3:30 p.m.16).

Johnson
  1. Not printed.
  2. Not printed.
  3. Despatch not printed.
  4. Rumors were based on a press report to the effect that Denmark had been “recognized” by the United Nations.
  5. Airgram not printed.