860C.01/12–2744
Memorandum by the Secretary of State to President Roosevelt
Various reports have been received indicating that, within the next few days, it is possible the Polish Committee of National Liberation will declare itself to be the provisional government of Poland and that it might be recognized as such by the Soviet, Yugoslav and Czechoslovak Governments.
The British Government has indicated that, if such action does take place, it will continue for the present at least to recognize the Polish Government in London (last paragraph of the Prime Minister’s telegram to you, no. 854, December 16).32
In view of the possible action by the Committee as indicated above, it is suggested that it might be advisable for me to discuss this question with Lord Halifax33 in order to assure that we and the British act in harmony in this matter prior to the meeting.34 We have no information indicating that the Committee is representative of the wishes of the Polish people and have some positive information that it is definitely not representative and therefore we feel that there would appear to be no justification for us to transfer now our recognition from the London Government to the Committee. It is suggested, in the circumstances, that despite any action taken by the Committee, we should be prepared to make it clear, in conjunction with the British, that at least until the meeting we continue to recognize the Polish Government in London.