862t.01/109: Telegram
The Observer on the Rhineland High Commission (Noyes) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:51 p.m.]
One year ago President Wilson obtained assent of Allies to control of the occupation by a civilian commission and the convention now governing was drawn in accordance with such a plan. Since that time Sir Harold and I have constantly struggled to maintain the Commission as a strictly civilian agency, coordinate, cooperative but entirely independent of the military. I must now inform my colleagues of the change. For this reason, as well as for my own information, would be [I must?] inquire whether it is the plan of the Department to abandon for reasons stated in your despatch, American participation in problems of the occupation, confining the activities of the American representative to those questions which directly affect the American zone and Army or is it as General Allen supposes [Page 328] merely an exchange of representatives, the relation of the American department to the Commission remaining as before. Although technically unofficial, and without vote, I have throughout taken part in the deliberations of the Commission on equality with the other Commissioners. In creating the governing ordinances, and securing their application, I have striven to maintain the principles enunciated by President Wilson and to give the occupation a character such that full participation would be tolerable to American people in case of ratification. The substitution of the American Commanding General as quasi-Commissioner would undo the work of a year, would [be contrary to] the President’s former insistence on civilian control, would, I believe, embarrass the High Commissioners of at least one other nation and be a first step in altering the character of the Commission and of the occupation. A representation limited to affairs of the American zone would of course have none of these results and would necessitate retention by the General of only very small part of my present organization. I recognize General Allen admirably qualified for the work but am naturally anxious that America shall not be the nation to break down the now established civilian character of the Commission. Personally, I shall be very glad to go home. I respectfully urge answer as soon as possible so that official announcement can be made here before recall leaks out, with possible inaccuracies and implications undesirable from international viewpoint.