FRENCH NAVAL MOVE

Taranaki Daily News, 16 September 1940, Page 8

FRENCH NAVAL MOVE

By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright.

WATCH ON TRADE ROUTES?

Rec. 6.30 p.m. Vichy, Sept. 14. The Navy Minister has announced that the Montcalm, Georges Leygnes and Gloire and three destroyers have arrived at Dakpr from Toulon. This completed the first major French naval movement since the armistice with Germany. It is believed that the ships have been sent to protect the trade routes with Dakar, Casablanca and other ports where much needed foodstuffs are awaiting shipment to France. A message from Gibraltar states that the British naval authorities confirm that the French cruisers and the destroyers which they name as l'Audecieux, Le Mail and Le Fantasque passed into the Atlantic from the East. It was thought that they were rallying to General de Gaulle, leader of the Free French forces. The cruisers named are of the same class. They are of 7600 tons and carry nine 6-inch guns, eight 3.5 and eight smaller anti-aircraft guns, four twin deck tubes and four aircraft with catapult. Their speed is from 31 to 32.25 knots. They were completed in 1935-37. having been laid down some years previously, but were held up for a modification of the design. The destroyers are all of the Fantasque class, of 2600 tons, completed in 1935-36, and with a speed of 37 knots.