857.01/60: Telegram
The Minister in Sweden (Sterling) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 18—9:02 a.m.]
741. Press reports from Oslo King Haakon’s refusal abdicate has rendered agreement between Administrative Council and German authorities highly difficult and negotiations are in progress concerning Norway’s future status with object finding solution present difficulties. Plans for appointing National Council after King’s abdication has advanced quite far as it seemed foregone conclusion King would comply with unanimous request of Presidency of Storting. Present difficulties appear to be Administrative Council does not wish to bear full consequences of King’s refusal by dethroning him as strong public opinion would react unfavorably. Now hoped possible German authorities will accept interim arrangement which would restore normal conditions and secure Norwegian self-government promised. Solution would be not propose dethronement of King at present but appoint a National Council conduct State affairs while King residing abroad. When he has been away 6 months without returning question of dethronement could be considered on constitutional basis and it is hoped that political situation at that time might facilitate definite decision. King may before that time realize futility continuing war for Norway from a country with which Germany is at war and abdicate for sake of his people. Storting expected summoned early in August.