HC Deb 27 May 1941 vol 371 cc1712-3
57. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of Stale for Foreign Affairs whether he will consider the advisability of breaking off all relations with the Vichy Government, now disclosed as part of the Axis machine, and granting recognition in the fullest appropriate form to the associations of free Frenchmen under General de Gaulle?

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Butler)

There are no British representatives of any kind in France, nor any French diplomatic representatives in this country. Certain French consuls are, however, as a matter of convenience, allowed to continue to function here, but they have no cypher or bag facilities and their duties are confined to routine consular matters. His Majesty's Government have recognised 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. Mander

Will my right hon. Friend consider giving much further recognition to General de Gaulle's movement as representing all that is best in France?

Mr. Butler

I do not think I can add to the comprehensive statement made by my right lion. Friend some days ago.