File No. 656.119/245
The Minister in the Netherlands ( Garrett) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 23, 8.41 a.m.]
2186. Special edition Dutch newspapers report that Minister Foreign Affairs stated in First Chamber today that this morning report was received from Dutch Minister at Washington similar to one received from Minister in London this morning. Exact text of proclamation issued by President wasn’t yet known to Minister. He designated Allies’ decision as arbitrary and breach of law. Government went as far as it was in any way possible with its neutrality. It hasn’t helped. Injustice has taken place. Loud protest of Government will undoubtedly find an echo everywhere. Statement made in Second Chamber needn’t be reiterated here, said Minister. Government won’t have to reproach itself with not having done its utmost if country has to bend under these afflictions. In Second Chamber [Page 1429] Chairman said that President of Cabinet had informed him that British Government hasn’t accepted Government proposal and that commencement will be made with taking ships into use. Government at Washington has taken Dutch vessels into use. President of Cabinet, Mr. Cort van der Linden, says that his colleague at Foreign Office is unable to be present. In his place Prime Minister said that Government consulted vital interests of country. We have not before us an ultimatum, nor have we acted under any pressure from Germany. We haven’t deviated from our neutrality but have acted under pressure of need in the confidence that Governments of Associated Powers would act otherwise. This is now passed. There are moments in a statesman’s life in which he is desirous of giving expression to his feelings. Government and people are one; never before have we been so unanimous without distinction of class, party or religion. Speaker hopes his words will be heard across the frontiers when he utters flaming protest against injustice and disdain which have been shown us. Our independence and rights are more and dearer to us than our daily bread and we shall be true to this until we are brought to beggary. Chairman says that Chamber joined fully in this powerful protest and that Government can rest assured of support of Chamber and of whole Dutch people.