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Jan, isn't that a contradiction in terms? If the French fleet would never be
used against GB, and the British terms to the French at MeK included two
forms of surrender which the French HAD INSTRUCTED THEIR COMMAND TO AGREE
TO, then didn't the action at MeK prove the British could not trust the
French Navy to follow their own command? Regardless of the promises that the
Navy might make?

The account was clear, the French had authorized their fleet to be
surrendered to the US or sunk. These were among the four options the British
presented. Their commander refused to do either.

Considering Hitler's established reputation as a man of honor [sic] the
British followed the only acceptable course of military action: They ensured
that there was no way the French *ships* could be used against them.
Regardless of promises from anyone, anywhere. That's what war is about. The
"Marquis of Queensbury" (?) rules may be fine in boxing, but they are
suicidal in war. War is not a sport among gentlemen.

   

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