HC Deb 10 February 1942 vol 377 cc1365-6
2. Major-General Sir Alfred Knox

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare what information he has as to supplies reaching the Axis forces operating in Libya from Vichy-controlled Africa; and what steps he proposes taking to prevent such traffic?

The Minister of Economic Warfare (Mr. Dalton)

There have undoubtedly been deliveries from French North Africa to the enemy in Libya of cars, lorries, wheat, wine and olive-oil. Gasoline and aviation spirit have also been reaching the enemy through Tunisia, though I am not yet in a position to say whether these were consigned from French North Africa or from Metropolitan France. His Majesty's Government take the most serious view of this assistance to the enemy by the Vichy authorities in North Africa, and are in urgent consultation with the Government of the United States. As hon. Members will have seen in the Press, the United States Government have already made inquiries in Vichy on this matter.

Sir Irving Albery

Does His Majesty's Government feel assured that no more serious step has been taken?

Mr. Dalton

We have made careful inquiries, and while the articles and quantities I have indicated have been sent, so far there is no evidence of any other kind.

Captain McEwen

Have the United States indicated that any reply has yet been received from Vichy?

Mr. Dalton

We are in very close touch with the United States Government, and in fact I am expecting a communication from them some time to-day.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister's intention to use the same vicious attitude towards Vichy France as he was in the habit of using towards Soviet Russia?