HC Deb 26 July 1944 vol 402 cc740-1
3. Miss Ward

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can now make a statement on the basis of the agreement come to between ourselves, the U.S.A. and the French National Committee.

Mr. Eden

As I informed the House on 12th July, the recent discussions with representatives of the French Committee of National Liberation regarding Civil Affairs in liberated France were conducted on the basis that the French Committee would, in fact, exercise governmental authority in France as that country's liberation proceeds. This basis has also been accepted by the United States Government, and I hope that the negotiations which are still proceeding in Washington will shortly reach a satisfactory conclusion.

Miss Ward

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that the information will be available before the House rises?

Mr. Eden

I, personally, very much hope so, but, of course, it does not lie with us alone to make progress.