Paris Peace Conf. 184.01102/64

Mr. C. M. Storey to Professor A. C. Coolidge 80

Subject: Elections in Hungary.

Some of the more intelligent political factors in Hungary are beginning to think that even in the present situation the election of the constituent assembly is becoming increasingly necessary. My information comes from several sources.

However, the only method of cutting the Gordian knot, caused by the occupation of Hungarian territory, has been suggested by Count Apponyi81 and is as follows: That elections be had in unoccupied territory, that at the same time a formal declaration be issued by the Government, protesting against the occupation and stating that the failure to hold elections in occupied territory is not to be considered in any way as admission of a relinquishment of sovereignty; and that delegates from occupied territory be chosen temporarily to represent the inhabitants thereof.

We have asked several persons their opinion as to the complexion of Parliament if elected and the answers have been more or less uniform and to the effect that unless pressure is exerted by the Government, the more conservative element will predominate. Count Apponyi further stated to me that he couldn’t remain much longer in retirement if things continued as at present and that he might shortly enter the political ring as an advocate of National Assembly. He told me that Capt. Pommerol when questioned had stated that to him a National Assembly seemed necessary and that he believed that the Entente would welcome it.

Respectfully yours,

Charles M. Storey
  1. Transmitted to the Commission by Professor Coolidge under covering letter No. 63, February 5; received February 12.
  2. Count Albert Apponyi, President of the Hungarian Independence Party.