HC Deb 20 November 1940 vol 365 cc1955-6
5. Mr. Cocks

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Government have any information as to the nature of the negotiations which have been taking place between the German Government and Vichy?

9. Mr. Martin

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any information on the negotiations between the French and German Governments on the revision of relations between occupied and unoccupied France and on the location of the French fleet?

Mr. Butler

On the return of Marshal Petain from his meeting with Herr Hitler on 24th October, an official communique was issued at Vichy stating that the two leaders had proceeded to a general discussion, in particular of the means of reconstructing peace, and that agreement was reached in principle on collaboration between the two statesmen. The manner of application of this principle was left for later examination. A similar statement was included in a speech which was broadcast by Marshal Petain on 30th October. His Majesty's Government have received no other positive or authoritative information concerning the nature or outcome of these negotiations.

Mr. Cocks

Have His Majesty's Government received a reply to the message which was sent to Marshal Petain at the time?

Mr. Butler

I shall want notice of that Question.

6. Mr. Cocks

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what suggestions have been received from Germany for an agreement at the expense of France?

Mr. Butler

Both before and since the war the abandonment of France by this country has been implicit in German public pronouncements on Germany's conception of a settlement with Great Britain. The ruling idea in the German mind is that Germany should dominate the Continent. This is a conception which we have never been and are not now willing to accept.