851A.01/1–342

Memorandum of Telephone Conversation, by the Minister in Canada (Moffat)

[Extract]

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

At three o’clock I telephoned Mr. Robertson22 again and read to him the text of a draft declaration prepared at the White House between the President and Mr. Churchill. Mr. Churchill was going to clear it with the Canadian Government but Mr. Hull thought that Mr. King might like to have the text in advance before it was sent him for clearance. It struck me as extremely adroit.

“The United States, British and Canadian Governments view this incident as on a very small scale compared to what is going on all over the world. The problems involved relate to the safeguarding of British, Canadian and American shipping in the North Atlantic and existing international commitments. Nevertheless it must be [Page 657] made clear that the Free French action was taken not only without their assent, but in the face of the declared wishes of the British Government.

“Accordingly, the three Governments have agreed that the principle that these islands are to be regarded in the present phase as demilitarized and out of the war shall be maintained. All armed forces will be withdrawn, it being understood that at the same time adequate steps shall be taken to assure that no radio station situated on the islands shall be used contrary to the interests of the United Nations.

“The local inhabitants will be left in full exercise of their rights of domestic self-government, arrangements being made both to continue the supplies from the United States and Canada on which they are dependent, and also to provide for the seasonal supply of fish to the French inhabitants of Martinique.

“Meanwhile, in the light of the relevant facts there should be no occasion for confusion or misunderstanding since there is no divergence of policy and there is complete cooperation and understanding between the United States, Great Britain and Canada in this as in other matters.”

I had asked Mr. Dunn23 the circumstances of its release. He said he was not quite clear on this point and did not know whether the plan was to release it at once or to wait until a favorable reply had been received from Vichy to Mr. Hull’s suggestions.

Mr. Robertson thanked me for giving him the text and said that if Mr. King or he had any observations to offer he would telephone me Saturday evening or Sunday. Not having heard further, I assume that the Canadians will clear as soon as received.

  1. Norman A. Robertson, Canadian Under Secretary of State for External Affairs.
  2. James Clement Dunn, Adviser on Political Relations.