Darlan Makes Statement On N. African Affairs

Northern Advocate, 17 December 1942, Page 5

Darlan Makes Statement On N. African Affairs

(Rec. 3 p.m. 8.0. W.) RUGBY, Dec. 16 A statement by Admiral Darlan, quoted by the headquarters of the European theatre of operation of the United States Army, reads:

“French Africa, with the Allies, must make the maximum military effort for the defeat of Germany and Italy. This will be accomplished by the unity of all citizens, regardless of political or religious opinions, in an orderly cohesive fashion. “At last liberated from German and Italian restsrictions, the French authorities in Africa will adjust, in accordance with French national traditions, the situation which has existed. Once France and the French Empire are free of this yoke, the French people themselves will decide freely the form of Government and national policy they desire. “The High Commissioner has already granted a full amnesty to all against whom any action has been taken because of sympathy to the Allies. Certain of these have been in very important posts in the High Commissariat. “He has restored to their proper ranks and emoluments all army officers suspended for rendering aid to the Allies. He has now organising a body of representative private citizens to work with him in an advisory consultative capacity in carrying on official business. Persecution Ceases “Prisoners and internees of the United Nations were promptly released and their removal to the seaboard expedited. “The High Commissioner has begun restoration of rights to persons from whom these were previously taken because of race measures, which are to cease immediately, whatever perseem tion of the Jews may have resulted from laws passed in France under German pressure. The announced purpose is to give just treatment to all elements making up the complete Noi'th African population. To the end that all can dwell and work together under laws ensuring mutual tolerance and respect for rights. There its little industrial development in North Africa and Vichy laws prejudicial to labour unions had little application. All reports show that there are no serious problems here. “Censorship of the Press and radio, in which Allied authorities participate, is only that necessary for the security of military operations. On the practical military side General Giraud had conducted the most active participation of the armed forces of north and north-west Africa in the Allied wav effort. Units of a substantial size, under the leadership of General Giraud are fighting side by side with the United Nations in Tunisia against the Germans and Italians. All postal and airfield facilities, including the services of officials and technicians have been made freely available for' use by the Allies and North African shipping is already entering the services of the Allied Nations."