860S.00/12–2247: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the United States Political Adviser (Joyce), at Trieste
164. Reurtel 237, Dec 22 para 5,1 Dept concerned lest proposed prohibition political meetings may be construed as infringement civil liberties and human rights residents zone and contravention our obligations under treaty and assurances we have given Security Council.
Dept full agreement necessity prevent incitement disorders and agrees Airey’s proposals prohibit wearing uniforms except US and UK forces and police FTT as well as strict prohibition carrying firearms and grenades and severe punishment violators. We consider, however, that holding of political meetings under necessary surveillance and in accord limitations prescribed by AMG shd not constitute threat public order and security. Dept considers Airey may reasonably require prior permission be obtained; meetings be held specified place; parades or other demonstrations be prohibited; attendance be generally limited to residents UK-US Zone; and that purpose of meeting be in accord laws and not inciting to disorders, unrest or disrespect for Govt or laws of Zone.
We consider above restrictions, vigorously enforced, shd provide necessary remedy situation and permit continued legitimate political activity UK-US Zone.
[Page 134]Brit Emb official, on basis instructions FonOff, has discussed matter with Dept and is in general agreement above.
You shd, in concert your Brit colleague, present Dept’s views Gen Airey and advise him we hope he will be able accept our suggestions this matter.
- Not printed; it reported that on December 21 there had been a meeting in Trieste of the Giulian Partisan Brigade and an attempt to march through the streets which was stopped by the police. When some small groups slipped through police blockades and marched, Italian groups threw grenades and about 10 persons were injured, one seriously. Joyce commented that such tactics of infiltration by the Slav Communists were hard to combat and that “AMG will prohibit further meetings of political character which are designed to and do excite unrest and disorders. Wearing of non-British or American uniforms in this zone without prior authorization will be prohibited. Prison sentences of up to several years will be summarily imposed on those carrying firearms and grenades . . . .” (860S.00/12–2247)↩