HC Deb 03 July 1940 vol 362 c815
6. Mr. Price

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any steps are being taken officially to recognise the French National Committee in London as representing all patriotic Frenchmen desirous of continuing the struggle along with Great Britain, thereby forming a rallying point for units of the French Navy and French Colonial Governors overseas?

Mr. Butler

As was announced on 28th June, His Majesty's Government recognise General de Gaulle as the leader of all free Frenchmen wherever they may be who rally to him in support of the Allied cause.

Mr. Price

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why there has been such long delay before this action was taken by the Government?

Mr. Butler

The action is perfectly emphatic.

Mr. Cocks

Does "wherever they may be" include France?

Mr. Butler

Certainly.

Mr. Mander

Do the Government also recognise the revolutionary Pétain Government?

Mr. Butler

His Majesty's Government are in relation with that Government through the French Chargé d'Affaires in London. I cannot further define how our attitude towards the Pétain Government will develop.