| BIU 80th Anniversary Celebration |  Print |
The British Import Union was formed on 14th February 1930 to promote British goods in Denmark, and smooth the import process. This was in response to the fact that Britain imported disproportionately more from Denmark than vice versa. A transmission from the Department of Overseas Trade sent on 25th September 1930 stated: "The Danes almost alone among foreigners seem to feel and admit a moral obligation to buy British goods because they sell so much Danish produce in Great Britain." There was a growing level of concern that were this to remain case, then Britain would slash its Danish imports. The newly formed union set about it's mission to persuade fellow Danes of the virtues of British goods, by setting up a series of 'Britisk Udstillinger' (British Exhibitions) in 1931, 1932, 1948 & 1955. The largest of these were held in 1932 and 1955, and were mainly located in Tivoli, but also had many peripheral sites around Copenhagen. British naval ships docked at Langelinie; there were football matches between the Scots and the Danes (Denmark won); there were royal visits and tattoos throughout the city; and even English pubs selling imported ales in Tivoli.
In 1964 the BIU organised 'British Week', and the military tattoo returned to play a repertoire including several Beatles songs alongside the traditional numbers. This was followed by the Britisk Tekniske Messe - a trade fair showcasing Britain's technological prowess. In 1979, the BIU was instrumental in re-establishing the Hamlet performances in Kronborg castle, with Sir David Jacobi in the title role. Continuing efforts to strengthen the links between Britain and Denmark, included the establishment of a scholarship scheme enabling Danish students to study in the UK.
 
The exhibition displaying the BIU's history was opened by BCCD-BIU's Patron, HMA Nick Archer, but despite his request, neither the BSA motorbike, Alvis or Morris MInor were available to be won, auctioned, or driven home later. Even so they provided a visible reminder of the technology contemporary with the BIU's founding, and an attractive focal point to the exhibition.
Hans Just is a longstanding member of BCCD-BIU and sponsored the pre-dinner drinks and wine. This was much appreciated by members and guests as they perused the stands, while drinking their Gin & Tonic and Whisky. The lunch was then held in the traditional pattern of the BIU - a two course served meal with fantastic wine.
Steen Langebæk, who served as BIU's President from 1977 - 1994, shared a few of his key memories from the BIU's history. He then introduced our two main speakers: Patrick Salmon, Chief Historian, Foreign & Commonwealth Office (below left); and Jørgen Sievaldsen, Danish historian and expert in British Danish relations (below right). Patrick and Jørgen both gave their views on the role the BIU has played, and it's interaction with UKTI and the British Embassy over the years.
 
Finally, in case two delicious courses weren't enough to fill everyone up, the speeches were rounded off with this cake:
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