840.00/3–1948: Telegram
The Ambassador in Belgium (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
562. Talked with Spaak last evening congratulating him treaty signature, et cetera. He evidently gratified and took occasion praise warmly sympathetic and helpful American attitude as interpreted throughout by Millard.
Confirmed Consultative Council meets here next week and seemed certain Brussels would remain its regular seat, Also confirmed Bidault’s apprehensions which he did not share himself.
President’s speech pleased him greatly and he went on say he thought perhaps our best policy at present would be support pact of Brussels with full moral and material aid together with unofficial consultations certain matters. He was doubtful if time now ripe anything more positive, saying we all could afford to assess Russian reaction before taking up further possibilities. Main thing now was continue confront Russia with solidarity firmness.
He is well aware technical difficulties coordinating defense measures within the five powers as well as certain essential differences in technique with American manufacturing practices (metric system et cetera). On economic aspects treaty of Brussels, he appeared less sanguine for reasons previously reported.
Also talked with Bevin who was very pleased with results saying unity now secured and strong front presented Russia. He insisted Russia needs plain speaking and said his advices were to effect she not ready or willing launch war. He thought Stalin strong stabilizing influence against war. Referred his telegram1 Secretary of State and said he ready implement meetings. Sketched broadly his strategic ideas establishing control over Atlantic Islands from Newfoundland, Greenland, Iceland, Azores to Casablanca. Spoke emphatically need for UK government bring Ireland together and into fold for common defense. [Page 58] He believes union in Ireland can be accomplished by sympathetic handling and obviously went to some lengths flatter Irish Chargé d’Affaires also present at table.
Bevin thought President’s speech excellent and welcomed warm support it conveyed. He appeared not to expect much more at this time than moral material aid plus certain conversations. He applauded President’s first point in particular paying highest tributes Marshall Plan and its originator.
Sent Department 562; repeated to London 72.