862.00/12–3045: Telegram
The United States Political Adviser for Germany (Murphy) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:42 p.m.]
1357. For the last fortnight or so there have been intense negotiations between Berlin SPD and KPD leaders, consisting, according to SPD reports obtained by local G–2, chiefly of strong and persistent pressure from KPD for merger of the two parties, or at least joint action regarding coming elections in American zone. These negotiations have now borne fruit as indicated in my 1356, December 29.
Main points of interest in this joint declaration are as follows: It is evident that Berlin Social Democrats have conceded much ground to present apparent Communist desire for immediate merger of the two parties. In so doing they have presumably widened the rift which has been developing between them and SPD elements in western and southern Germany, which, according to latest public declarations, are opposed to any present merger with Communists.
The part of the resolution referring to elections is clearly aimed at influencing next few months program for American zone though it remains to be seen how SPD leaders there will respond. While the latter do not admit that Berlin committee has any authority over them, it is obvious that for psychological and historical reasons, this statement will have some effect in SPD circles everywhere. It will of course serve as clear directive to Communists there.
Resolution also indicates what has been fairly apparent for some weeks, namely that KPD has now swung back considerably towards [Page 1084] the left, i.e., as concerns Socialism and private property. Regard for certain degree of capitalist economy which was for example apparent in Communist program and propaganda issued last summer has now been replaced by frank call to the goal of Marxist Socialism and proletarian internationalism.
Among other things this resolution, particularly those sections dealing with party merger and Socialism as goals, may presumably induce some of present SPD adherents to desert the party. CDU expects to gain as a result.