Code telegram from Joseph P. Walshe to Seán Murphy (Vichy)
(No. 95) (Personal) (Copy)

As you know French Government have decided to economize in matter of Commercial Attachés and Lestocquoy¹ has received preliminary notice through his Minister. Could you suggest to French Government that Irish Government think it pity that this excellent official with nine years experience in Ireland highly esteemed by everybody and an ardent supporter of Pétain ideals should be taken away at a time when his intimate knowledge of Irish agricultural and commercial conditions can be of such service in preparing for closer economic cooperation after war. He is only person in Legation who takes serious interest in this country or in his work. Lestocquoy would be extremely grateful to you for a good word. The actual regulation leaves French Government considerable latitude and they could leave him here without departing from it.