865.00/7–645: Telegram
No. 469
The Ambassador in Italy
(Kirk) to the Acting Secretary of State
1
1851. Strictly confidential.
I had a conversation with Parri yesterday evening. The gist of his remark[s] was in particular the necessity for material aid to Italy with emphasis on the immediate requirement for coal to prevent further unrest in the north and in general the difficulty which he was experiencing in his efforts at reconstruction owing to the restrictions imposed by the armistice regime.
Personal contact with the new pres of the council confirms the general impression of his seriousness simplicity and intellectual distinction. Last night however, he gave no indication of the vitality alertness or assurance which even Bonomi displayed and certainly there was lacking any show of dynamic leadership.
In view of the lack of outstanding quality or proven ability in the members of the cabinet it is useless to speculate on the chance of success of this ministry as only time can tell. It must be admitted, however, that in the present circumstances no govt however gifted can prove its effectiveness unless the armistice regime is abolished[,] unless Allied troops are maintained in the country to give confidence to the people in their prevailing state of demoralization and unless material aid is immediately forthcoming to prevent unrest through widespread unemployment and undernourishment.
- The gist of this message was included in telegram No. 11 of July 10 from Grew to Byrnes (file No. 740.00119 Potsdam/7–1045).↩