854.24/172: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant)
6120. Your 6358, September 23, and your 6493, September 27. As indicated in our 5800, September 21, the Swiss Minister orally raised with us the points stated by Thurnheer in his memorandum to Foot. Department and OEW agree with position taken by Foot in his memorandum to Thurnheer quoted in your 6493, September 27, and Department is orally taking this position with the Swiss Minister here.
We observe that contrary to his usual practice, Swiss Minister in London failed to give you a copy of his memorandum to Foot and that this probably indicates that the Swiss are attempting to draw Washington directly into the controversy by separate representations here. This double approach of the Swiss (here and in London) tends to confusion and delay and in this instance deprived us of an opportunity to discuss Foot’s memorandum in advance of its delivery. While we approve the position taken by Foot, and assume that you agree, a joint reply approved by the Department would seem to be preferable. We plan to impress upon the Swiss Minister that the forthcoming negotiations will be centered in London.