Theoretically, the Sultan remained the sole source of sovereignty. He reigned, but he did not rule. Defense and external relations are controlled by France and Spain. As a protectorate the Sultan was 'assisted' by the Résident général and Alto Comisario in the French and Spanish zones. In real terms they were in absolute control of their zones. Though indirect rule was the norm for internal government, with the exception of Europeans that were tried by their own laws had consular assistance. Foreign debts, customs regulations, and currency are supervised by the State Bank of Morocco.