800.796/7–1144
Memorandum by the Chief of the Aviation Division (Morgan) to the Assistant Secretary of State (Berle)
Mr. Berle: Reviewing the situation with respect to the exploratory talks on aviation, it seems to me that we cannot make much more progress before the international conference until we have had a further talk with the British and definitely ascertained how near we can come to agreement on the fundamental principles of the powers of the international authority and the method which is to be followed in establishing international air transport services.
We have had a number of talks with other nations which have shown us fairly well where we stand with them, and our conversations with the Dutch should be especially illuminating; but the real key to the situation always remains our agreement or lack of agreement with the British. Would it not be in order therefore to reopen the exploratory talks with them as soon as possible? I assume as [Page 507] a matter of comity that they should make the trip over here this time and have no doubt they will be willing to do so. Probably the best approach would be an informal communication from you direct to Lord Beaverbrook sounding him out.
I also feel that the so-called draft bilateral convention which we have submitted to a number of delegations should also be submitted to the British. An aide-mémoire covering this was sent to your office some time ago, but so far as I know the aide-mémoire and the document have not yet been delivered. I feel reasonably sure that the New Zealanders will show the document which we handed to them, and the British may be rather suspicious when they realize that we have submitted this document to a number of people but not to them.
I also feel that steps should be taken to enter upon our exploratory talks with the Brazilians as soon as possible, not only because of the importance of Brazil but because we should certainly include one South American nation in these talks prior to any international conference. It is also important for us to clear up the question of rights to the ADT airports.
An invitation was submitted to the Brazilians, but no reply has been received. The Brazilian Government always functions very slowly, but perhaps a follow-up through the Embassy in Rio would be desirable.