862.5043/11–445: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Political Adviser for Germany (Murphy)
912. Reurtel No. 937 of November 4. The Department suggests that the United States should support the position of declaring previous elections null and void, and of holding new elections. If necessary, the United States should agree to accept the results of previous elections, but only for a short interim period which should be followed by the holding of new elections according to the general principles agreed upon by the Kommandatura’s Labor Committee as reported in your 825 of October 21.
The Department does not consider General Gavin’s proposed solution adequate as it fails to provide guidance on what should be done in the event that a commander is not satisfied as to the democratic nature of the elections held in his district. It also violates the principle of unified policies and procedures on trade union affairs throughout the districts.