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LOST SECRET

& URGENT.

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288

THE CHANCELIOR OF THE

DUCHY OF LANCASTER'S OFFICE,

55, Whitehall, S.W.1.

24th June, 1940.

Dear Edward,

I hear you are putting together a synopsis of the

needs of our future policy towards France.

I have a point of urgent importance, namely the

desirability of action at the earliest possible moment,

consistent with our general policy towards France, to

destroy French stocks of oil, If we cannot act promptly

we shall miss the bus, and the German war effort will be

materially strengthened.

I had hoped to bring it to the Cabinet this

morning, but a message was sent out to me that the

subject could not be taken.

I recognise that the French Fleet is more

important and that this must take second place.

I am terribly afraid of its being overlooked,

But

I think it is also of first importance to get hold

of the shipping in French ports. Some peole just

returned from Bordeaux told me that every berth in the

river is full, and that there were 20 ships, including

7 tankers waiting outside. We ought to get out the whole

lot, French and neutral, I have discussed it with the

Admiralty and I know they are keen.

Since dictating the above I have received a message

from the officer of the Naval Staff with whom I have been

in touch on these questions urging that the moment for a

decision and action is now.

Yours ever

(Signed)

HANKEY,

The Rt. Hon. Viscount Halifax, K.G.

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