Formality in Martinique

This time Admiral Georges Robert had no need to consult Vichy: the goateed High Commissioner of French Caribbean possessions had broken with Pierre Laval's Nazi Government, had become his own boss in Martinique, Guadeloupe, French Guiana.

So, to signalize his new status, Admiral Robert and the State Department's Samuel Reber last week again signed agreements the Admiral had signed twice before (after consulting Vichy) with U.S. officials. Main terms: 1) immobilization of the French aircraft carrier Beam, two cruisers, some auxiliary and merchant ships; 2) U.S. supervision of communications; 3) U.S. economic aid; 4) the right to keep U.S. observers in the French West Indies, of which Martinique--on a direct route between Europe and the Panama Canal--is most strategic (TIME, May 25). Likely results: 1) practical independence for the French West Indies; 2) little need for U.S. occupation.

Year ago such developments were prime news in the U.S., worried about Vichy intentions. Now, history having moved lightning-fast, the signing got small attention in the nation's press.

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