851.86/67: Telegram

The Chargé in the United Kingdom (Matthews) to the Secretary of State

1351. Fighting French officials have made further mention (my 1328, February 20, midnight) of the alleged recruiting by Giraud’s military and naval representatives of French for service in North Africa and to the acceptance of persons already enrolled for service with Fighting French forces. Reference was made to a French news agency dispatch from Washington published in Francegen in London that Giraud’s delegation is carrying out such recruiting with the agreement of the American authorities. Admiral Stark would like to know whether any such arrangements stipulate that Giraud’s representatives should refuse to accept enlistments from persons who have previously signed enrollment in Fighting French forces.

Matthews