HOLLAND

Dutch trade is suffering from the French blockade of the Ruhr. At Rotterdam, Holland's largest port, shipping has been brought practically to a standstill. Thousands are without work.

Before the Ruhr occupation most of Germany's trade from that great industrial area passed down the Rhine and through Rotterdam. The new situation is viewed by Dutch shipping companies with much concern. The Netherlands Government has, however, received official assurance from both France and Belgium that the interests of Holland will be safeguarded.

This protest from the Dutch comes on the heels of a similar representation from the Swiss Government.