740.00112 European War 1039/4996: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Consul General at Algiers (Cole)
87. For Murphy. Your 176, March 23, 6 p.m. In view of the ultimate Axis destination of a large proportion of the edible oils exported from French West Africa, the Department is unable to agree to the shipment of alcohol from Algeria to move these products from the interior. Such an operation would constitute indirect aid to the enemy, and would be contrary to the spirit of the recent assurances given by the French Government regarding supplies for Libya.
As you have pointed out, the question of these edible oils remains the principal obstacle to discussion of economic aid for French West Africa. If a formula can be offered which would prevent supplying of the Axis with these products, the subject would receive prompt consideration.
Repeat to Vichy.