740.00119 Control (Germany)/2–1448: Telegram
The Chargé in Belgium (Millard) to the Secretary of State
331. Remytel 285, February 9 regarding McNeil’s “invitation” Benelux take part London meeting regarding Germany1 Loridan said situation unclear nothing further received since McNeil left. Loridan stated if powers contemplate merely informing Benelux their view policy regarding Germany which had been done in past this would not be enough. Benelux wishes be consulted formation both economic and political policy regarding Germany. He said McNeil told Spaak that first point agenda on proposed forthcoming London talks was question how to meet Benelux repeated requests be consulted on Germany. As nothing received Loridan said he had no idea what was present status of this matter except it was clear that McNeil’s suggestions had not been followed up and he had no idea what if any next step would be.
Asked to what extent Benelux would insist on being consulted in policy regarding Germany Loridan said he could not give adequate answer to so large and important question but he understood Benelux would expect be included in formation economic and political policy; execution policy being in hands occupying powers.
Sent Department 331, repeated London 25, Paris 23, Hague 15.
- During the first week of February 1948, British Minister of State Hector McNeil visited Brussels. Telegram 273, February 7, from Brussels, not printed, reported that McNeil had mentioned to Belgian Prime Minister Spaak and Luxembourg Foreign Minister Been that the Benelux countries would be invited to the London Conference on Germany. No formal invitation was, however, extended (840.00/–748). Telegram £85, February 9, from Brussels, not printed, reported that Belgian authorities had heard nothing further regarding an invitation to London (840.00/2–948).↩