THE FUTURE OF FRANCE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVIII, Issue 23970, 21 May 1941, Page 8

THE FUTURE OF FRANCE

The world is still awaiting details of what has been agreed on by Admiral Darlan in his talks with the Axis leaders'. Apart from the practical evidence of surrender revealed in Syria, speculation suggests that Italian claims against French territory are to be withdrawn in part, a slice of Yugoslavia being given instead. While much of this is vague and unofficial, there is nothing equivocal about what General de Gaulle has said on the general question. Trying to neutralise in advance the effect on world opinion of what he obviously fears will be vital concessions to the enemy, General de Gaulle attacks their validity. His two main points , are that Vichy is acting under duress, and that it has no proper authority to act for, or to bind, the French nation. Therefore, he suggests, France should not be held responsible for these things done in her name. From a strictly legal point of view he is, no doubt, right. Unfortunately, considerations of this kind are not likely to influence Nazi Germany. Puppet Governments with far less claim than Vichy to represent the nation have been used as tools in other countries and the principle that bargains made under duress are not valid makes no appeal to people who both subscribe to and act on the doctrine that might is right. The rest of the world does not wish to visit on the French people the consequences of their leaders' actions. Chief among British war aims is the determination to free them, as well as other victims of aggression, from the sufferings and oppression defeat has brought. Active co-operation with the enemy would, however, be something Britain could not ignore, nor suffer passively, even while giving full recognition to the principles underlying General de Gaulle s proclamation.