Foreign Relations of the United States, 1946, The Near East and Africa, Volume VII

868.00/4–546: Telegram

The Chargé in Greece (Rankin) to the Secretary of State

confidential

Athens, April 5, 1946—3 p.m.
[Received 6:30 p.m.]

455. Mytel 454, Apr 5.⁶⁶ New Cabinet will remain office only until election Populist leader at party congress 2 weeks hence.

In private conversation last night Brit Amb Norton⁶⁷ confirmed various points made by Lascelles (mytel 446 April 2). Populist leaders told him April 2 question of Damaskinos resignation (which now in King’s hands) is for King to deride. Norton understands King is being pressed by Bevin to retain Damaskinos but is proving “sticky”. Participation National Bloc leaders was obtained by vague formula on plebiscite according which matter will be “considered” after Assembly convenes. Tsaldaris told Norton Populists would yield on question immediate plebiscite if Bevin so requested on grounds “international situation” and Bevin has informed Norton his willingness make such request.

Rankin

66. Not printed; it stated that the Poulitsas Cabinet had been sworn in the preceding day (868.00/4–546).
67. Sir Clifford V. Norton became British Ambassador to Greece in March of 1946.