868.00/3–747: Telegram
The Ambassador in Greece (MacVeagh) to the Secretary of State
334. Mytels 312, March 4, and 330, March 6.1 In connection with recent summary arrests and deportations by Minister Public Order, I have privately spoken to MinFonAff, PriMin, King’s political adviser and King himself urging most strongly that, in my view, however real may be need of counteracting subversive activity here Greek Govt should not use tactics which can possibly be characterized as dictatorial, especially at this time when US Govt seriously considering aid to Greece. In particular, PriMin, who is very old friend, has allowed me to say that, in my opinion, he would do well to “debarrass himself of General Zervas” as Minister Public Order, and to replace him with some gentleman of known liberal views who could protect state just as efficiently, but less spectacularly, and with greater observance of due process of law.
My British colleague, who was present during this talk with Maximos, and who is just as disturbed as I am, fear possible foreign repercussions gave my advice his full and urgent support. Maximos replied by justifying Zervas actions on grounds national emergency and denying they imply any danger of dictatorship, but I begged him think matter over carefully. Meanwhile, though all my conversations this subject completely private, FonOff appears to have advised press that Norton and I “protested” arrests, and that we were told these justified for reasons of state. In addition, Communist controlled EAM in keeping with its propaganda to effect that new US attitude toward Greece is support to Fascism has embroidered story by saying Maximos told me my views not in agreement with Secretary Marshall pronouncements.
In expressing my views to Greek leaders, I studiously avoided committing Dept, and should latter consider me wrong, I believe no harm has been done, particularly as I was unsuccessful with either King, who was wholly sympathetic in his dislike of Zervas and comprehension of problem but felt as usual unable to take action, or with others who appeared more frightened of immediate local situation than of possibility losing our support. Meanwhile, I feel that I have proceeded utmost in private expressions, and anything further to be said must be said officially. Should Dept decide intervene, I believe best course would be follow my lead in pointing out to Greeks danger they are running from their own point of view, and leave decision to them rather than to insist on any specific action their part.
[Page 103]They seem now in panicky mood very similar to that of 1923 when direct British intervention to stop shooting of six cabinet ministers resulted in immediate execution despite obvious deteriment to country’s interest. It is quite possible that Zervas and all he stands for would be strengthened here enormously if it could be said that his removal was “demanded” from outside.
- Neither printed.↩