740.00119 Control (German)/6–1149: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Acting Secretary of State
top secret
Paris
, June
11, 1949—11 p.m.
Actel 59. Eyes Only for Webb from Secretary. Reference your Telac 60.1 I concur in the views contained in the NSC report.2 I would ask that attention be given to the two following points:
- 1st. Reimposition of blockade would create situation even more serious than its original imposition because it would be without any basis except hostility, and after nine months experience we all know how serious the blockade situation is. Therefore, believe we should stress to NSC and President how perilously close to war such a situation would be. I hope the military authorities will have this in mind and will make it clear to commanders in the field.
- 2nd. Because of the considerations just stated, in addition to airlift and reimposition of counter measures previously used in Germany, thorough study should be made of all other counter measures, not merely in Germany, which might be used and for which we should be ready.
Regarding the possible warning mentioned in paragraph 5 of NSC report, I understand from your comment that 1 have discretion to determine whether this is desirable in the light of the situation as it develops here.3
Acheson