740.00115 E.W./7–1145: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant)
5651. Following is Moscow’s reaction message quoted Dept’s 5372, July 2, 7 p.m.
“Careful consideration has been given to questions raised in Dept’s 1496, July 2 concerning repatriation of German diplomats from neutral capitals, and we have discussed matter with Brit Emb which has considerably more background material on this subject. It is our view and that of Brit Emb here that it would be much preferable that this matter be arranged exclusively through Control Commission in Berlin and that no approach be made to Soviet Govt in Moscow on this subject. To make such an approach here would only involve a whole series of Soviet authorities which might otherwise not have to be consulted, and would probably lead to long delays and a number of counter questions. We think it likely that in the end such an approach would create more problems than it would solve. Since I understand that Russians favor expulsion of these Germans from countries they are in, particularly Sweden, I do not think that any approach on our part is needed in order to persuade Russians to instruct their representatives along these lines.”
Dept disposed agree Moscow’s recommendations. Does FonOff concur?