501.BC/4–2648: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin)
257. 1. Dept considers that Kashmir Plebiscite Administrator must be man outstanding qualifications with established reputation India and Pakistan. This would seem limit choice to Brit nationals or US nationals known to India and Pakistan leaders through military or other service in area. In view delicacy Brit position designation Brit national probably impracticable. Dept is therefore willing have US national designated Plebiscite Administrator.
2. In event SC Pres must appoint member or members to complete Commission, Dept does not wish US to be so appointed and Pres should be so informed. If Pakistan does not appoint its nominee within ten day period, Dept believes Turkey would be sound choice for appointment by SC Pres as fourth Commission member. New Zealand or Scandinavian state would be appropriate fifth member whether appointed by Pres with Turkey or singly as a result of India and Pakistan nominees failing to agree on fifth member.
3. As exception to first sentence, para 2, Dept considers US could scarcely refuse appointment by SC Pres as neutral fifth member Commission if it is clear that US national is not to be designated Plebiscite Administrator.
4. If Pakistan does appoint its member Commission and if that member and Czechoslovakia choose US as fifth member Commission, Dept considers that US responsibilities as UN member would require acceptance.
5. Dept does not consider it desirable for US national to serve as Plebiscite Administrator and for US to serve also as Commission member. However, if US is chosen Commission member pursuant to para 4, it may be necessary for US fill both posts.