Department of State Atomic Energy Files
Record of Teletype Conference Between the Counselor of the Department of State (Bohlen) in London and the Director of the Policy Planning Staff (Kennan)
Mr. Kennan: I want to let you and the Secretary have a brief picture of the state of the talks we are having with the British and Canadians on a subject [with which] you are familiar. In general, the talks have gone very well, and in a completely frank and pleasant atmosphere. We have reached satisfactory agreement on all points except the question of raw materials. The British are willing to agree that we should have the entire Congo production for the next year or [Page 906] two, but they do not wish to let us have any of the stocks which have accumulated in England. At least a portion of these stocks will have to be moved [to] this country if adequate reserves are to be maintained for our project. It is plain to us that difficulties stem not from British delegation here but from Cabinet in London, where decision appears to be made, largely on emotional grounds, that none of supplies on hand in England are to be given up. Makins, who has clearly been impressed with our good will and with logic of our position, will probably be returning to London soon to ask for re-consideration of British position at Cabinet level. I thought Secretary might wish to mention this matter to Bevin before his departure. We have been warned that Bevin is very sensitive about suggestion that materials should not be left in England because this would be “insecure”. For this reason, we have not introduced this argument here but have stuck strictly to consideration of needs. I believe this has been wise and is one of reasons why British are prepared to ask Cabinet to reconsider. Do you suppose Secretary will have another opportunity to speak to Bevin on this matter?
Mr. Bohlen: I will put it up to him but as he paid farewell call on Bevin this afternoon and we are leaving tomorrow about 3 p.m. he may not wish to seek special interview. Douglas in any case might see Bevin before our departure.
Mr. Kennan: That is just what we were afraid of.
Mr. Bohlen: I will see what can be done tomorrow morning if you think it important enough for special call by Secretary.
Mr. Kennan: I do not think we would recommend special visit on Secretary’s part but it would be fine if Douglas could handle.
Mr. Bohlen: no reply
Mr. Kennan: Present British position is not one we could well defend to Congress. I am sure British delegation here is keenly aware of its weakness though we must not let them down on this point. They may be able to accomplish the results alone. But British Government must in any case understand that our demands are reasonable and entirely justified in needs of our operation and that unless there is some give on their part we can be faced with a situation in Congress which could have appalling consequences. End of Conference.