740.0011 European War 1939/22164b
Memorandum by Mr. Carlton Savage, Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of State (Long), to the Secretary of State
Mr. Secretary: In accordance with instructions I have given consideration [to] the question of adherence by the Commonwealth of the Philippines to the Declaration by United Nations. I have discussed the question with Mr. Sayre,61 Mr. Hackworth, Mr. Hamilton, and Mr. Davis62 of PI.
The Declaration provides that it may be adhered to by other “nations” which are, or which may be, rendering material assistance and contributions in the struggle for victory over Hitlerism. If the Executive [Page 907] should invite the Philippines to adhere to the Declaration this act might be construed by some as a recognition of the independence of the Philippines and thereby create an awkward situation as Congress has provided for independence in 1946.
On the other hand it can be argued that India, which may be considered no more a nation than the Philippines, is one of the original signatories of the Declaration. Furthermore, there is no doubt that there would be a worthwhile moral effect from accepting the Philippines as a member of the United Nations. The Commonwealth has proved that it is willing to fight for freedom.
If it should be decided that the Philippines are to adhere to the Declaration by United Nations it would seem prudent to consult beforehand with the British, Chinese, and Soviet Governments. The attached draft instruction63 has been prepared for this purpose.