865.00/7–646: Telegram
The United States Deputy Political Adviser at Allied Force Headquarters (Byington) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 6—11:32 a.m.]
636. Re Dept’s 139, May 10, 4 p.m.92 General Harding has suggested [Page 909] on a number of occasions to AFHQ that an approach be made to Italian Government along lines indicated in paragraph 3 of my 501, May 8, 5 p.m. When consulted here I have consistently expressed Department’s views indicated in its 139 under reference.
At his meeting yesterday SAC himself raised this question saying that General Harding had inquired of him whether an informal approach could be made to De Gasperi, pointing out need for restraint in statements by Italian Government and on part of Italian elements in Venezia Giulia.
British Ambassador said that he had already taken this line with De Gasperi on a completely informal basis. I pointed out that Department did not hold the opinion that there was any basis for an approach to Italian Government regarding activities in Venezia Giulia and expressed view that there should be consultation between the two Governments before any approach should be made to the Italian PriMin. SAC decided that no approach on this matter should be made by Admiral Stone to De Gasperi and it should rest to the Embassies to consider what further steps should be taken.
Sent Dept 636; repeated Rome 472.