793.94/4237: Telegram
The Chargé in Great Britain (Atherton) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 16—7:17 p.m.]
70. Referring to this afternoon’s telephone conversation, I venture an explanation of the changed tenor of thought here today. I do not feel that Sir John Simon’s personal views have altered since he talked with you on the telephone yesterday afternoon or since his conversation with me at dinner last evening but he is a member of a coalition government; and the members of the Cabinet, debating this question with the Prime Minister, include such varied opinion as Baldwin, Lord Hailsham, Thomas (representing Dominion interests) and Simon himself. Furthermore, I am informed Simon had an audience with the King today where the Far Eastern situation was also discussed.
I feel certain that while Simon is prepared to endeavor to fulfill any engagements he may tentatively make with you, his policy in the last instance must be agreed upon by a coalition Cabinet which [Page 363] may decide to deviate from the course the Foreign Secretary proposes. I did not feel free to explain the foregoing over the telephone this evening.
Subsequent to our telephone conversation I informed Vansittart as you instructed.