851.504/3–2847: Telegram
The Secretary of State 1 to the Acting Secretary of State
urgent
1065. Kosmos 15. For Acheson from Marshall. Your 641, March 24, 7 p. m.2 We appreciate that US is committed to undertake discussions with French relating to recruitment of labor in US zone Germany. We are also bound by the terms of our bi-zonal agreement with the British. As subject is of major economic importance, we should enter into no [Page 633] agreement with French in the absence of accord with British. In other words, question should be decided on bi-zonal basis and not unilaterally by US, but no objection to preliminary discussion with French to ascertain details French plan. As we understand it, French interested primarily in able-bodied German male skilled workmen and technicians. These are also at a premium in Germany and, of course, directly concern German production and consequently affect US–UK budgetary outlay.
We also do not agree that quadripartite approval is not necessary, and are doubtful of the accuracy of the statement that recruitment on voluntary basis is not inconsistent with views expressed in ACA incident to Soviet deportation of German technicians. Suggest you verify minutes carefully on this point.
Moreover, if we do agree to unilateral recruitment, we should not establish unworkable conditions which would be certain to result in continuing friction between zone Commander and French Government involving repeated appeals to our Government. It does not appear clear how recruitment would prove practical under conditions outlined with respect to priority of displaced persons and need for labor in German economy.
General Clay concurs.
Sent Berlin as 181; Department please repeat Paris as Moscow’s 89.