Office of the Historian

501.BC/8–447: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Acting United States Representative at the United Nations (Johnson)

secret
us urgent
Washington, August 4, 1947—7 p. m.

336. Following is sent to you for your guidance in Anglo-Egyptian case:

(a)
We believe that SC should adjourn after both Egypt and UK have had opportunity to make their opening statements. We believe complex issues will undoubtedly arise from presentation of cases by disputant parties. Therefore, SC members should have at least one week to study Brit and Egyptian positions and to consult their Govts. Temporary adjournment would also afford parties opportunity to institute diplomatic measures with view to reaching solution in case. Accordingly US should initiate or support proposal to adjourn.
(b)
If question of participation of Sudanese Govt officials arises Dept believes SC may invite them to supply info or give other assistance in accordance with Rule 39 of SC Rules of Procedure. Sudanese Govt obviously does not fall in categories stipulated in Arts 31 or 32 of UN Charter.
(c)
Dept does not believe analogy of Brit position in Egypt to that of US in Philippines or Cuba is entirely accurate or would be well received in this country or strengthen Brit case. Dept leaves to your discretion whether this should be pointed out to your Brit colleague. He of course should be assured however that US does not desire to influence UK presentation of its case.
(d)
US still hopeful that after parties present their cases they will be able to settle differences through resumption of negotiations. However since probability of resumption of negotiations seems slim at present Dept is carefully studying other possible solutions. Our additional views will be forwarded to you after we have had opportunity to study Brit and Egyptian opening statements.

Marshall