863.20/8–1048: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Legation in Austria

top secret

689. With reference to French note (Deptel 588 July 31) and Gen Keyes’ recommendation (urtel 911 July 162 and P 2239 Aug 51) Dept of Army has recommended and Dept agrees that French participate in committee of mil experts with US and UK in Vienna to draw up plans for organization and requirements of future Austrian Army. Discussions will be held at appropriate time with Austrian authorities with a view to obtaining maximum agreement in Austrian Govt prior to possible submission of any plan to AC in line with Deputies’ recommendation in London. Submission of plan to AC would be determined by general political situation and course of treaty developments. Meanwhile, discussions should be held in strict secrecy. AmEmbassies in London, Paris have been requested to communicate foregoing to FonOffs for transmission to mil authorities with request that appropriate instructions be sent to Vienna.

Army sending appropriate instructions to General Keyes.

Marshall
  1. Not printed.
  2. Supra.
  3. Not printed.