-3-
 
      B. It must be understood that His Majesty's Government cannot 
      withdraw their support of General De Gaulle's movement and must 
      give him such support as he requires to maintain his authority 
      in those French Colonies which rally to his cause.
 
      (2)Subject to these conditions the
 
      discussions which His Majesty's Government
 
      contemplate would turn on the following three
 
      questions:
 
      (a) How to ensure to the satisfaction of His Majesty's Government 
      that that part of the French Colonial Empire not now or hereafter 
      controlled by General De Gaulle does not fall under German or 
      Italian influence. In this connexion Sir Samuel Hoare could repeat 
      to the French Ambassador the assurance His Majesty's Government 
      have repeatedly made public of their intention after the war 
      to see the greatness and independence of France restored. This 
      of course includes any territories that may spontaneously in 
      the meanwhile join with General De Gaulle.
 
      (b) If the French Government can furnish adequate assurances 
      on the above points, His Majesty's Government would be prepared 
      to study any proposals which the French Government may wish to 
      make regarding the possibility of some trade exchanges between 
      the French Colonies and unoccupied France.
 
      (c) How to ensure that ships of the French navy can in no circumstances 
      fall into German or Italian hands.
 
      (3)It should be made clear that His
 
      Majesty's Government attaches utmost importance to
 
      their blockade weapon which they must continue to
 
      employ to the full against the enemy. They could
 
      only contemplate unusual relaxation if absolutely
 
      satisfied that the French Government are able and
 
      willing/