RESIGNATION OF M. FLANDIN

Southland Times, Issue 24357, 11 February 1941, Page 5

RESIGNATION OF M. FLANDIN

Vicious Attacks On Petain (United Press Assn. —Telegraph Copyright) (Received February 10, 9 p.m.) LONDON, February 10. The campaign of vicious attacks on Marshal Petain and the Vichy Government is continuing. A Paris Press communique in which M. Flandin’s resignation was announced stated, “M. Flandin, who responded to the Marshal’s appeal when, at a delicate moment, Marshal Petain asked for collaboration, considered it his duty to place his office at the disposal of Marshal Petain. This gives the great soldier complete liberty to take all measures required by the present situation. Admiral Darlan’s con- ; versations in Paris, after the recent inI terview between Marshal Petain and M. I Laval at La Ferte, gave the Montoire j policy a new reality and the situation ! thus created will probably lead to decisions in the near future.” The Montoire policy means the one agreed on between Marshal Petain and Hitler at their meeting at Montoire.

There the Marshal accepted the principle of French and German collaboration with adherence to the terms of the armistice.

M. Flandin’s letter of resignation to Marshal Petain declared, “On December 14 you appointed me Minister of Foreign Affairs after events, concerned with internal policy, in which I played no part. I gave myself to the tasks you laid down—put in effect the policy collaboration regarding the armistice terms with dignity and honour. It did not rest with me whether that policy would be executed. Force of circumstances compels me to affirm this fact, and, therefore, I ask you to accept my resignation.” Marshal Petain, in his reply to M. Flandin, said: “By leaving the Government you are sacrificing yourself for France. Your noble gesture will be understood and appreciated.” The Vichy radio stated that Admiral Darlan replaces M. Flandin and also becomes Vice-Premier and retains tire naval portfolio.