Office of the Historian

740.00119 PW/12–2346: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Chargé in the United Kingdom (Gallman)

secret
Washington, December 23, 1946—8 p.m.

8285. On Nov 6 Asst Secy Hilldring handed British Embassy here proposal (see Dept Info Circular Airgram Dec 6, 8:45 AM) for handling Jap reparations settlement. Proposal called for US issuance interim emergency directives within terms of reference of FEC where nine month stalemate on consideration disposition external assets paralyzes progress solution broad reparations problem. Though requested reply promptly, British say matter still under consideration London. British Embassy understands urgency, but we urge you approach London [Page 601] FonOff to indicate importance prompt transmittal British views this matter.58

Byrnes
  1. In telegram 10247, December 24, 1 p.m., from London, Mr. Gallman reported that the British Foreign Office “expressed regret for delay, adding that owing complicated nature question and necessity for consultations other govt depts and dominions it could not say definitely when British views will be forthcoming.” (740.00119 P.W./12–2446)↩