840.50 Recovery/9–1247: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom
3987. For Douglas from the Secretary. With reference to Bevin message (urtel 4950), we give you our views below. You are authorized to express orally such portions as you may consider adequately responsive to Bevin’s comments.
Bevin’s concern is fully appreciated but in light of press stories both here and from Paris quoting Franks and FonOff spokesmen that CEEC will complete “first report” on September 22 (AP and Times from Paris, 12 September) there seems little use in a statement from Washington at this time. Dept can not fully endorse CEEC report to date or even projected “first report” of September 22 and, since it is likely that initial report will need some further revision, at least in part, any optimistic comments would be contrary to facts, might take heat off conferees, and would most certainly do harm here. Our understanding is that CEEC has agreed that it will reconvene if necessary to consider further friendly aid suggestions from US after first report is reviewed in Washington (where substantial cuts, particularly [Page 431] in food, may be found necessary). This seems to us desirable way to achieve end result both we and participating nations hope can be achieved.
Dept believes CEEC under Bevin’s and Frank’s leadership has made much progress in short time it has been at work and taking into account limiting terms of reference. Our friendly aid activities have been motivated solely by genuine desire to help CEEC help itself and in response to appeal from CEEC for our views as to form of report.
All the above may be unnecessary in view of later word on Bevin’s attitude contained your 4951 September 12, paragraph three.
If Bevin still concerned we would see no objection your making appreciative statement in London if in your judgment this is wise.1 In this connection you should give consideration to probable substantial revision of program which must be made here before it can be recommended by us or approved by Congress.
- In telegram 5129, September 23, Ambassador Douglas stated: “In my judgment it is not now necessary for me to make a statement.” (840.50 Recovery/9–2347)↩