501.BB/8–1848: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in France
3306. For your info Dept distinctly unenthusiastic candidatures GA Presidency Evatt and Arce whose hats only ones in ring thus far. For your info Brit committed support Evatt but reactions number other states negative or unenthusiastic. Also there is strong general feeling outside Latin America to which some Latins even agree, and we share, that Latins have held Presidency too many times and should not receive it this year. Without any solicitation our part have reed several expressions opinion French Presidency would be appropriate. Dept definitely against Latin American President and feels as expressed Deptel 31421 very appropriate Paris meeting be chaired by French-speaking Western European. Dept impressed reasoning Bech. (See Brussels’156 to Paris.)
Will you raise with Schuman again (urtel 4280 Aug 18),2 suggesting French reconsideration. Points which could be made in your discretion among others which may occur to you include:
(1) Appropriateness French speaking chairman; (2) Graceful occasion to abolish precedent that Presidency should not be held by rep of great power; (3) Useful to French international prestige; (4) Should be helpful to domestic prestige Schuman Govt; (5) In view unsolicited observations we have reed believe good possibility general support French candidate; (6) Might be natural solution which would [Page 116] eliminate bitter fight over Presidency getting Assembly off on unhappy note.
If French reluctance continues, please report their detailed reasons such reluctance with your evaluation thereof.