501.BB Palestine/10–1848: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the United States Delegation at Paris
Gadel 232. Eyes only Rusk from Lovett. Discussed Arab refugee problem at White House yesterday and submitted Dept’s memo1 suggesting that President might use authority as Commander-in-Chief to direct military establishments to issue blankets, cloth, wheat, medicines, etc., to tide situation over to minor extent until UN takes over. There is serious legal question whether President’s authority in peacetime permits such order for foreign relief. Matter will have to be carefully explored by Attorney General’s office and White House. We estimate this will take approximately two weeks but White House has requested Attgen give it priority. President is anxious for this country as a Government to do all it properly can but does not feel he can act unless and until formal legal opinion received.
In connection with discussion in GA regarding UN program for Arab refugees, press reports state U.K.–U.S. Resolution does not provide for an appropriation of UN funds but requests governments and individuals to help and states U.S. Del wants ask Congress make special appropriation this purpose.
In light information first paragraph above, our exploration matter so far indicates no Governmental funds available from current appropriations unless President can take step under discussion. Therefore about all we can say publicly at present appears to be that this Government is giving most active and earnest consideration to methods of providing assistance in the absence of Congress, and particularly the legal problems presented by the situation.
We think there is much merit in proposal Tel Aviv message October 172 repeated Paris as Dept’s circular 3 AM Oct 18.3 It may be far easier to make contribution to domestic Red Cross for International Red Cross use. Will check with Red Cross here. What are your views?