740.00119 Council/3–548: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Douglas) to the Secretary of State
urgent
880. Delsec 1610. Ninth meeting German problems March 4 was devoted to discussion working party’s report on international control of Ruhr. Text and review of portions taken today’s meeting subject separate telegrams.1
Before taking up report meeting considered supplementary proposal suggested by Benelux re safeguarding rights of existing foreign owners of coal mining and steel properties in Ruhr. After some discussion, it was agreed that three military governors in Germany, in consultation with delegation of three Benelux governments will study question. It developed in discussion that Benelux representatives had in mind examination of present management as affecting foreign owners’ rights. Douglas stated categorically he could not agree examination if present management was involved. He and Strang made clear study should be made in connection with plans for international control of Ruhr, i.e., it referred to future not present.
After long discussion of working party’s report at which large measure agreement reached, unresolved points referred back to working party.
Next meeting morning March 5 will discuss working party’s report [Page 131] on Item F political and economic organization and communiqué; afternoon meeting to resume Ruhr discussion.
Sent Department as 880; repeated USPolAd Berlin 49, Paris 89, Moscow 42, The Hague at 23, Oslo 18, Copenhagen 20, Stockholm 26, Rome 41, Brussels 35, Brussels keep Luxembourg informed.