800.00 Summaries/31t: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in the United Kingdom (Bucknell)
4079. CBS32 News Round-Up this morning carried a broadcast direct from London to the effect that a statement on Denmark prepared by the British and American Governments had recently been transmitted, through secret channels, to the King of Denmark who had not only approved its text but also had evinced gratification that its issuance was contemplated. The broadcast from London added that the declaration is now before the Soviet Foreign Office for consideration by the Soviet Government and that its issuance by the British, American and Soviet Governments might be expected momentarily. While it is possible that the story may have emanated from SHAEF (see your 3900, May 1333) it is difficult nevertheless to escape the conclusion that the story is the result of a leak from British or Danish circles in London. Not only is there a possibility that the position and even the safety of the King of Denmark may be compromised through public revelation at this time of the fact that he is in communication with the outside world through secret channels but the possibility of embarrassment arises out of the fact that the Soviet Government has now stated that it could not adhere to or sign a declaration which appeals to the Danish people to rally around the King of Denmark.
Please first check with SHAEF and then get in touch with the Foreign Office in regard to this matter and report by telegraph.
Sent to London, repeated to Moscow for information only as Department’s 1273.