840.70/11–2244: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 23—1:17 a.m.]
10293. The text of the British proposal for an interim arrangement until the establishment of EITO which we have just received is as follows:
“The further delay which may be expected in the establishment of EITO makes it highly desirable to set up some stopgap body to deal with the more urgent problems which EITO might have tackled. [Page 881] We have already explained why we do not think that the Interim Commission can in present circumstances be set up. Some body is, however, required to perform substantially the same functions as those laid down for the Interim Commission in the draft directive and also that of advising and assisting the European Governments on transport matters. It should include representatives of those United Nations which have assumed responsibility for their transport system, and should maintain suitably close relations with those which have not. The Soviet Government should be informed of the proposed creation of this provisional organ and should be given every opportunity to participate in its operations but its participation need not be regarded as essential.
“For these purposes we suggest that a bureau be set up by the Allied Governments represented at the Conference, The bureau should: report to the Conference. Clay and Barrington-Ward might be appointed as United States and United Kingdom members of the bureau; and France, and if they wish to participate USSR, might similarly appoint members. Existing TACIT Secretariat would form the nucleus of the staff with Hondelink as director, and other experts should be added as required. Expenses could be borne initially by United Kingdom, USA and perhaps France and USSR, such contributions being treated as advances against eventual contributions to administrative expenses of EITO.
“Bureau would collect information on and study transport conditions in Europe, give any possible advice and assistance as required both to military authorities and to Allied Governments, facilitate transition from military to civil responsibility, prepare and co-ordinate estimates or requirements of the transport equipment and material, sponsor them with the Combined Boards and supply authorities and follow up procurement action and in general work towards the fulfilment of the purposes of EITO.”
Our comments will follow shortly.