811.24596/9–3046: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Philippines (McNutt) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 30—3:05 a.m.]
475. Deptel 413, September 27. Fight for equal rights amendment was severest test to date Roxas’ leadership requiring all his energy. To submit base agreement to 5-day special session crowded with essential domestic legislation (e.g. budget) would smack of coercion which he could ill afford so soon after equal rights battle. Only serious objections of merit remaining to be overcome are (1) to retention of McKinley–Nichols Field area and (2) US jurisdiction over temporary bases urban areas. As to (1), objection is to large installations near centers population, especially capital, fear increase this reservation or even retention existing boundaries will block natural growth Manila in desirable direction. I must admit considerable validity both counts but recognizing fiscal aspect abandonment Nichols investment and duplication elsewhere shall try secure agreement. Believe to promise whereby Army would exchange McKinley for another joint headquarters area possibly Bataan or neighborhood Statsenburg while retaining Nichols with addition to bay front would be acceptable.
As to (2), believe agreement likely on basis schedule priorities for abandonment specified temporary installations to be agreed upon with Roxas.
Roxas assured me he will resume discussions personally participating during latter part week beginning September 30.
2. For modus vivendi if another special session unfeasible, would suggest executive approval Army, Navy commence construction bases to which no Congressional objection anticipated.