FRENCH RELATIONS

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 265, 8 October 1940, Page 7

FRENCH RELATIONS

AUSTRALIA’S ATTITUDE

REPLY TO CONSUL. (United Press Association —Copyright.) (Rec. 9 a.m.) SYDNEY, Oct. 8. The ' French Consul-General in Australia (M. Tremoulet) officially stated that- lie represented the Retain Government, which was the only French Government, and condemned as humbugs French citizens living in the Pacific who had declared for General de Gaulle. He explained that diplomatic relaticuis had not been broken with the British Government or the Dominions. “The mere fact that I am here in my official capacity is sufficient proof that my position is recognised by the Commonwealth Government,” he said. The Commonwealth Minister of External Affairs (Mr AlcEwan), replying, regretted' the reflection made by M. Tremoulet on the French Pacific colonies. . He added: “It is true M. Tremoulet is recognised by the Commonwealth Government as the Consul-General of France,, but consular - representation is by no’means identical with diplomatic representation. The- attitude of the United Kingdom Government is shared exactly by the Australian Government. We sympathise with continental France in her military defeat, but applaud the courageous attitude of the French colonists, who are deteimined to fight on till victory is won.” FRENCH POLICY.

VICHY, Oct. 6. Foreign reports that the Axis lias invited the Retain Government to dedare wstr on I3ritai.ii arc officially denied.