811.7365/1–2846: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom
1354. For Reinstein.28 Disposition Italian submarine cables (Rome 467, Jan. 28; Caserta tels. 62, Jan. 15 and 18, Jan. 729) is matter for decision Italian Peace Conference and closely connected with other phases of over-all settlement. Trend of thought in US is toward ultimate return of all Italian cables to Italy but decision [Page 13] must await Peace Treaty. It is US view that meantime all Italian cables should be returned Italy for operation of Italian terminals and maintenance at Italian expense. Such operation and maintenance must in no wise affect ultimate decision in Peace Treaty. During such interim operation and maintenance Italy shall be entitled to its share of tolls collected as would be true in any general commercial arrangements and may negotiate with Brit or US companies re such division of tolls as may be possible. No rental should be charged Italy or Italcable during interim operation. As interim measure Gibraltar terminal should remain and be under Cable and Wireless operational control. Final decision concerning removal awaits Peace Conference and other decisions. While this plan envisages interim relinquishment US Army channel in one of the Italian cables negotiated with Brit March 1945 it must be clearly understood US interest in that channel continues and will be subject for discussion at Peace Conference when ultimate decision re Italian cables is reached.
Bring this matter to FonOff attention and attempt to obtain concurrence. Inform Dept of its views.
Repeat to Rome as 313.