501.AC/4–946
Memorandum of Conversation, by the Acting Assistant Chief of the Division of International Organization Affairs (Halderman)
| Participants: | OA–Mr. Stokes |
| Mr. Maktos | |
| Mr. Reiff | |
| Mr. Halderman | |
| Le–Miss Whiteman | |
| RP–Mr. Bevans |
The purpose of the meeting was to give preliminary consideration to action to be taken with respect to the General Convention on Privileges and Immunities approved by the General Assembly and opened for adherence.
It was pointed out that an instrument containing the same provisions as the General Convention is attached as an annex to the Draft Convention between the United Nations and the United States with reference to the permanent headquarters, and that this instrument was intended to take effect until the General Convention is concluded. [Page 79] The possibility was suggested of having this annex come into force as a protocol, accompanied by legislation necessary to give it effect. It was suggested that Congress might be more amenable to the proposals if it were first presented as a provisional arrangement. On the other hand it was suggested that the General Convention does not contain measures of a drastic character, and that it should not necessarily he anticipated that Congress would find it objectionable.
The other principal proposal as to timing was that the General Convention should be proceeded with at once. It was thought that the psychological effect would be good if the United States adherence could be concluded by the September meeting of the Assembly. It was also suggested that final action on both the General and Special Conventions should be taken at once instead of going through the procedure twice. This question was left open.
It was agreed that whichever approach is followed, it will be necessary to prepare authoritative answers as to the extent to which the Convention involves a change in existing legislation. It was agreed to undertake a study of this in OA and RP, and also to consult with interested divisions in the Department. When these studies are concluded, they can furnish a basis of discussion for the next meeting. At that time other officials of the Department will be invited, with a view to arriving at recommendations for subsequent procedure. It was considered that that would also be the appropriate time for undertaking consultations with other interested departments and agencies of the Government.