740.00119 EAC/10–344: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 3—5:30 p.m.]
8274. Comea 105. For your information in considering the British draft amendments to the protocol on occupation of Germany (my 8137 [8237], September 29, 5 p.m.) there is some uncertainty among my advisers as to the meaning of “control of the ports of Bremen and Bremerhaven” (Department’s 7670, September 20, 7 p.m.). One interpretation of this provision is that the American Commander-in-Chief will have jurisdiction over port facilities, warehouses, barracks, hotels, etc., required for the transit of American forces and materials and that military government these ports and cities will be in the hands of the British occupying authorities. I believe this a practical and [Page 347] useful interpretation. Another view is that the American Commander must also have full responsibility for military government in Bremen and Bremerhaven. If the second interpretation is valid it will be necessary to define territorially the American zone around Bremen and its relations to the Commander-in-Chief in the British Zone. This interpretation may create difficulties with the Russians, who, I believe, will recognize exceptions involving transport facilities but may question extension of political control in an Allied Zone. I should appreciate clarification on this point prior to discussing with the British and Russians the proposed amendment to the protocol on occupation.