Nothing known here beyond the fact that the French have ceased
fighting. Last communication received from the British Ambassador
[1] indicated that the French Government were seeking an armistice
but stated would not accept dishonourable terms amongst which
would be included a demand to hand over the French fleet. This
assurance I would attach no weight to having regard to personnel
with exception Darlan [2] whose acceptance of office in the
present Government difficult to understand unless he feels that
inside he may be able to do something to save the fleet whereas
outside he would be powerless.

Difficult to forecast German action in view of French collapse. It
may be to refuse to discuss any terms while United Kingdom
fighting or to dictate peace terms which might not be unduly
harsh. Possibly Hitler in conjunction with Mussolini will make a
peace declaration as suggested in my previous cables. Whatever
action taken Germany will occupy France for duration of the war.

If action of present French Government results in complete
elimination from the war including cessation of all resistance in
colonies and handing over of the fleet, the position would be most
serious.

I have been urging some chance must be given to those Frenchmen
who are opposed to the present Government's policy of submission
to express themselves. There is considerable evidence that the
present French Government, which in addition to being defeatist is
markedly conservative, does not represent the views of many
influential sections.

To achieve this it must be shown British determination to support
France went to limit. With this in mind I drafted while the War
Cabinet was sitting the rough note set out in my telegram No. 435
[3] and obtained concurrence of the High Commissioners for Canada
[4] and South Africa [5] to it. Consideration now being given to
point it raised.

While possibility of further serious resistance in France has
gone, if any substantial repudiation and challenge of present
French Government's submission could be brought about a
continuance of resistance in the Colonies would be possible. In
the Mediterranean the importance of this cannot be exaggerated-
e.g. French armies in Morocco and Syria and prospect of keeping
the French fleet out of German hands would be enhanced.

With regard to an attack on United Kingdom apart from
considerations in appreciation sent you by the Dominions Office
[6] the position of [Ireland,] [7] Iceland and Shetlands of
paramount importance. I have been urging exploration of every
possible method of safeguarding the former and strengthening of
the garrisons in two latter.

BRUCE