740.0011 European War 1939/10709: Telegram
The Minister in Egypt (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 7—11:32 p.m.]
422. My 392, May 2, 7 p.m. I am given to understand that as matters stand at Djibouti the British have practically abandoned the hope of persuading the French there to make common cause with the Free French and British forces and that the British are now considering whether it would be preferable to attempt to exert pressure on the French in Djibouti by setting up a blockade or to negotiate with the French authorities there for use of the harbor, railway and other facilities along the lines indicated in my telegram under reference. This latter course is being advocated in certain circles on the basis of a belief that once these facilities are granted defense might gradually be developed which would inure to the benefit of the British in a larger way. It is reported that the matter has been submitted to London for decision.