865.4016/6–2548: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Political Adviser for Germany (Murphy)
1113. Dept approval of authorizations extra personnel for Ital registration South Tyrol optants urtel 1302 June 51 given in expectation Ital authorities will keep OMGUS and Aust Govt adequately informed of results census and progress repatriation. In Dept’s view Aust has legitimate interest under Sept 5 Agreement in repatriation [Page 1355] South Tyroleans from Germany as well as Austria, extending to participation in registration optants if the parties agree (Deptel 211 Feb 52). Details of cooperation matter for Ital and Aust to work out and not for this Govt to impose. In absence Ital agreement to Aust participation, registration can however proceed under Ital auspices as expeditiously as possible in order meet Feb 1949 deadline.
For Rome and Vienna: Dept earnestly desirous that repatriation program may be carried through smoothly and without incidents that can be developed into political issues or charges of illiberal implementation Sept 5 Agreement. Please inform respective foreign offices our interest in their continued cooperation toward this end.
Sent Berlin as 1113; rptd Rome as 1751 and Vienna as 561.