FRENCH WARSHIPS

Auckland Star, Volume LXXIII, Issue 114, 16 May 1942, Page 7

FRENCH WARSHIPS

DEMOBILISING MOVE

Economic Issues Discussed At

Martinique

United Press Association.—Copyright. Rec. 1.30 p.m. WASHINGTON. May 15. The Secretary of State, Mr. Cordell H ««. mi a statement to the Press, said the demobilisation of the French warships at Martinique was going forward, and in this way a most important point at issue was being settled, but some military and econonH? questions still remained unsettled.

Mr. Hull said the negotiations were continuing, x and satisfactory progress was being made. These involved technicalities that might require some time to adjust. He appeared optimistic in this regard, and again emphasised America's determination not to deal with Laval on tne Martinique issues. Asked whether a Note from Laval had been received, Mr. Hull did not answer directly, but pointed out that he was giving attention onlv to the negotiations at Martinique. He said the proposals regarding 140.000 tons of shipping at Martinique cime more under the economic than under the JP. hase . he explained that there still remained some military questions unsettled. It was understood that these included the question of the American bases at Mar.Guadelpupe, j n order to prevent their possible Axis use as submarine bases.