Foreign Relations of the United States, 1946, Eastern Europe, The Soviet Union, Volume VI

740.00119 Council/8–3046: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the United States Delegation to the Paris Peace Conference

top secret
us urgent

Washington, September 20, 1946—7 p.m.

5008. Secdel 960. For Matthews. UK wishes sell Czecho one squadron estimated 24 mosquito fighter bomber aircraft. Their sale virtually completed but held in suspense pending consent of US to sale of US lend-lease propellers installed on planes and lend-lease components and spares for propellers and engines. Our consent necessary under Military Holdings Agreement with UK March 27.⁶⁹ Value lend-lease element small proportion and not in question. Department Policy Committee Arms and Armaments ruled this morning deny consent to sale of lend-lease element view of Secretary’s policy toward Czecho surplus sales expressed Delsec 877 Aug 30. I feel this difficult decision requiring further interpretation Secretary’s policy. British representations at high level here, view of embarrassment to British should consent be withheld. Czechs doubtless will know cause of suspension if sale stopped. Have promised British reply Monday if possible.⁷⁰

Clayton

69. For text of this agreement, see TIAS 1509; 4 UNTS 2; or 60 Stat. (pt. 2) 1525.
70. In telegram 4760, Delsec 980, September 23, from Paris, Matthews stated that the position taken by the Department was in full accord with the Secretary’s policy. Matthews added: “We see no cause for embarrassment to US when the Czechs learn of reason of suspension if sale stopped. Czech delegation here has been frankly informed of our reasons for terminating unexpended portion of surplus property credit. Secretary advised Bevin of our position Saturday afternoon.” (740.00119 Council/9–2346)