There has been widespread political criticism in Denmark of a decision by the Internet auctioneers Lauritz.com not to auction off a painting by cartoonist Kurt Westergaard, the proceeds of which were to go to earthquake relief in Haiti.

The auction is to allow TV2 viewers to bid on various works and artefacts, the proceeds of which are to go in relief funding.

Minister for Culture Carina Christensen says the move gives a wrong signal and has urged the company to review its decision, while Socialist People’s Party Leader Villy Søvndal says Lauritz.com’s decision is ridiculous.

He adds that Westergaard, like so many others, wants to help the victims of the Haiti earthquake and has therefore offered to place Westergaard’s painting on his party’s website. “The Danes can bid there and we’ll send the money to Haiti,” says Søvndal.

Danish People’s Party
The Danish People’s Party is prepared to offer a similar service.

“We’ll put a link to the gallery in Skanderborg that is auctioning off Westegraard’s watercolour and people can bid there,” Danish People’s Party Leader Pia Kjærsgaard tells Ritzau.