868.00/7–2147: Telegram
The Ambassador in Greece (MacVeagh) to the Secretary of State
1175. Deptel 1084, July 18. In my belief, based on … reports which also available to Dept, Govt cannot be blamed for recent widespread preventive measures against Communist menace which of a highly serious nature. However, in view of character of govt thus forced to defend itself, it may be considered certain that many injustices have occurred and are likely to occur in connection this affair, and I therefore feel that addressing similar remarks to Foreign Office as those being made by British may not be inappropriate, particularly since we now so closely associated with Greece in public eye. May also possibly have some effect, since part at least of Cabinet aware of situation and sensitive to justified criticism.
I talked today with Minister Justice Alexandris and he earnestly repeated assurances previously given me by non-political Prime Minister Maximos and Centrist Cabinet member Canellopoulos. Everything possible being done to screen innocent as well as to clothe and feed all detainees. He also expressed great bitterness over failure of Greek propaganda services to make these efforts properly known.
Regarding outlawing Communist Party, Prime Minister has told me this will not be done “at present”. Feels existing laws sufficient to cover situation and does not want prosecution for “ideology” but only for acts. I believe this very sound. However, Prime Minister added unable vouch for what Govt would do if separate Communist Govt erected. In any case, it is my understanding that outlawing would apply only to party members of KKE and not to non-Communist members EAM.
Sent Dept as 1175, repeated London as 76.