840.50/10–2444: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 24—9:30 a.m.]
9120. ReDepts 8208, October 7, noon. We informed Cadogan31 of our readiness to begin discussions regarding the establishment of the European Economic Commission as soon as participation by the Soviet Government can be arranged. We indicated to him our anxiety that the talks be inaugurated at an early date and advised him of the steps taken by the Department through AmEmbassy Moscow, to expedite the early designation and briefing of a Soviet representative in London for the talks. Cadogan agreed that it is desirable to get on with the matter with a minimum of delay and indicated that steps would be taken by the British Government soon to persuade the Soviet Government to participate. We also saw Ronald on the same subject who said that the proposal to establish the Committee had been brought to the attention of the Soviet Government through the British Embassy at Moscow. He said that he would take the matter up with Sobolev, Minister Counselor of the Soviet Embassy here, whom he has always found particularly understanding and cooperative in such matters. In the absence of the Russian Ambassador and the Minister Counselor we have not yet discussed the subject with them as instructed in your telegram under reference. We shall however do so at the earliest opportunity. Meanwhile it is possible that the purpose will be served through representations at Moscow pursuant to the Department’s instructions.
- Sir Alexander Cadogan, British Permanent Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.↩