840.50 Recovery/6–2647: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom
2776. For Clayton and the Ambassador. Ur 3516 June 26. Dept has from time to time endeavored persuade Itals for their own good [Page 296] expedite treaty ratification, and reports from Dunn and Ital Amb Wash indicate Ital Govt will act as rapidly as Ital political situation permits. We have however resisted numerous Brit proposals to join them in exerting pressure on Itals, feeling such pressure would strengthen stand of Ital opponents of ratification and place Ital Govt in difficult position.
Pls inform FonOff and if possible get word to Bevin in Paris that we are convinced Ital Govt is aware of advantages early treaty ratification and will in fact ratify shortly. We do not agree however that Ital ratification is necessary before Italy can participate in discussions European aid. In fact, it seems wholly unrealistic to erect legalistic barrier to participation country whose economy bulks so large in European economy and whose recovery is essential to economic health of Europe and world. You shd add that we therefore feel Italy shd be brought into discussions at earliest possible date and would be keenly disappointed if Brit were to fail to support Italy for membership suggested committee.