§ 16. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether he has any information regarding an agreement with French North Africa to allow the passage of goods between the United States of America and that territory; whether the United States of America have informed His Majesty's Government of their intentions; and whether he will give an assurance that he will afford no facilities for the passage of goods to French North Africa?
§ Mr. DaltonDuring the past two months the United States Government have discussed with the French authorities a proposal whereby certain limited shipments of goods should be permitted for consumption in French North Africa. The United States Government have throughout kept us informed. The execution of these plans must depend on future developments, and for the moment discussions are suspended.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs it desirable that we should provide facilities for the passage of goods to French North Africa, which is, in effect, enemy territory? Are we to understand that that is the policy of His Majesty's Government?
§ Mr. DaltonNo facilities are being provided.
§ Mr. ShinwellIf this agreement is being negotiated, and since the United States Government have declared their intention of making shipments to French North Africa, are we to allow these goods to pass unimpeded?
§ Mr. DaltonIf my hon. Friend will study the terms of the answer I gave, he will see that I stated that execution of these plans will depend on future developments and that, for the moment, these discussions are suspended.
§ Mr. ShinwellOught we not to make it plain beyond any shadow of doubt that we have no intention of allowing goods to pass into French North Africa, which is, in effect, enemy territory? May I have an answer to that question?
§ Mr. DaltonMy hon. Friend must be well aware that we constantly express our views to the United States of America and that we exchange views with them in return.