868.00/5–2546: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Greece (Rankin)
661. Difficulties of mounting and sending into field an operation similar in character to Amfoge even though on smaller scale have led Dept to following conclusions, which are being transmitted to Brit Emb here for forwarding to Brit FonOff. Please discuss with appropriate Brit officials in Athens, reporting to Dept their views and comments as well as your own. AmEmb London is requested to follow up with Brit FonOff.
- 1.
- Desirable to keep revision mission small and unambitious as possible without jeopardizing accomplishment of purposes. Dept prefers to have no US military personnel included and to play down necessary participation of Brit military personnel, even though it is [Page 166] recognized they must be used as observers in field and close cooperation with Brit military and Police Mission necessary for successful operations.
- 2.
- Dept believes the most practicable assistance it can render will be on technical samplers level and civilian personnel to staff and administer central office. For your information, it is felt US took lead and bore largest share responsibility and expense in Amfoge operations. Since decision to accede to Greek request for early plebiscite mainly due to Brit initiative, it would appear Brit should assume responsibility for heavier share in this operation. Furthermore, it seems logical that Brit, in spite of manpower shortage, are in better position to furnish personnel and services in Greece than US, which has no men and equipment on spot. US willing to assume its share financial responsibility along with Brit and Greek Govts.
[Here follow paragraphs numbered 3, 4, and 5 which analyze the number and type of civilian personnel to be made available, problems dealing with transportation within Greece, and questions relating to sampling.]
Dept would appreciate your early comments and suggestions.
Sent to Athens 661, rptd London 4287, Paris 2533.