Historically Britain spent time, harbor space, money, and political effort securing French ships whose crews did not continue the war. An organized Darlan-led departure leaves those ships crewed and lets the French ministry handle its own administration. Britain also gains access to imperial manpower and bases without fighting campaigns to detach them from Vichy. Tunisia can then support bombers against Italy and light forces that relieve pressure on Malta.
Notable Point · 1:42:16-1:43:58
A self-administering French state saves British resources
France brings its own ministry, crews, imperial administration, and manpower, avoiding British costs for internment and separate colonial campaigns.