868.00/4–546: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Greece (Rankin)
us urgent
438. Brit Emb has informally made available to Dept copy of Bevin’s message April 1 to Norton instructing him approach Greek political leaders and state Bevin’s opinion that Govt which will be set up as result elections should be broad coalition and that it is in best interests Greece that Regent carry on, by agreement of King and of parties represented in new Govt. Norton was instructed inform Regent of Bevin’s views and assure him that Bevin is ready make public statement his desire see Damaskinos retain his position once King, new Govt and Regent himself have given assurances this acceptable. Brit Emb advises that when Brit Govt advised King against early plebiscite, King adopted intransigeant attitude, stating he must await information from his Ministers. King declared he was informed from Greece that none of the Greek political leaders wished Damaskinos to continue as Regent, and that he was determined to observe strict letter of constitution, which provides that in absence of King, his functions must be exercised by Crown Prince or by Govt of the day.
Brit Emb has stated on instructions that Bevin hopes US Govt will make similar representations to Greek political leaders re nature of future Govt and also be prepared issue public statement expressing hope that Damaskinos will not resign.
Brit Emb has been informed that we feel that before deciding our course of action in this respect we should have more information regarding elections and Greek political situation resulting therefrom. (Urtel 446, Apr 2). In particular, we should have some indication re attitude of Observation Mission Chiefs re validity of elections.
Following are Dept’s comments and instructions on points raised in lettered paragraphs urtel 446 Apr 2:
- a.
- Dept believes that in order that Greek Govt may be able to take strongest measures for solution of pressing economic problems now [Page 132] facing country and forcefully be represented in international gatherings, Govt should be as representative a coalition as possible. If asked for advice by political leaders, you are authorized to state this Govt’s belief that establishment of a broad coalition Govt would be in best interests of Greek people.
- b.
- Because the precipitate return of the King would arouse passions and might retard rehabilitation, Dept believes an early plebiscite would be unfortunate and that Damaskinos should continue as Regent. If in your opinion such action would assist in inducing Regent to remain in office you are authorized to express to Damaskinos this Govt’s hope that, after having so capably steered Greece through the troubled times prior to the elections, he will not leave his office at a time when Greece is greatly in need of the firm and experienced leadership which he is uniquely qualified to give.
- c.
- Dept very interested in your reasoning re majority in elections favoring a republic. In any event, for reasons stated in a above, Dept believes that an early plebiscite on the King’s return would be most undesirable. Dept would prefer to see plebiscite take place when economic situation has improved, and believes that it should not take place earlier than the spring of 1947. In your discretion, you may communicate this position to Brit Emb and to Greek political leaders who may ask our views on subject, adding of course that date of plebiscite is matter for decision by Greek Govt alone.
Dept would appreciate your early comment on above, as well as further estimate of type Govt likely to be set up and course of action likely to be pursued by Regent.