853B.7962/12–147: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Portugal

secret
us urgent
niact

862. Agree formula may be accepted in principle subject to minor modifications. (Urtel 973, Dec 1.) Hope you can postpone any final decisions with FonMin on modifications we desire until arrival Hammond [Page 1051] who is full briefed on our views and who is due to arrive Lisbon probably with Warren Dec 3.

Briefly, we would like language modifications made (urtel 961, Nov 27) but do not wish to insist, if Portuguese have strong substantive objections, in view liberal interpretation they are giving formula. Believe you are best judge of what is feasible and acceptable this respect. However, we do wish to insist on removal requirement dependents must live at Praia da Victoria. Hammond advises conditions there are so bad this requirement constitutes, in effect, prohibition on presence of families.

Instead of including expression of appreciation in formal note of acceptance, we suggest you send FonMin separate letter, under instructions from your Govt, along lines of draft enclosed with Dunham’s letter to you Oct 28.1

Lovett
  1. Not printed.