840.00/1–2149: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Caffery) to the Secretary of State 1
263. Five-power study group on European federation, which reconvened here earlier this week, has concluded its discussions and FonOff skepticism concerning attitude of British delegation was confirmed.
According to FonOff source Dalton told meeting flatly that he was under firm instructions to present British plan and endeavor to win over other delegations to it, but that he had no authority to change any part of it. Consequently no negotiations were possible and there was nothing for group to do but adjourn. British were completely isolated in their position. FonOff gained impression, however, that British delegates were personally embarrassed by their instructions and that personally they were in agreement with other delegations on almost every point, only important exception being question of voting machinery in consultative council whereby under British plan head of each delegation would cast one vote for his entire group.
As result of impasse British plan and plan favored by four other delegations will be presented to Brussels Pact consultative council next week. FonOff feels that:
- (1)
- Bevin2 hopes he will have better chance of making his views prevail at small meeting where only FonMins will be present, and
- (2)
- Bevin will probably put forward suggestion for enlarging study group by inviting Scandinavian states and Italy in hope of picking up allies. (French, who favor early inclusion of these countries, will probably oppose this suggestion, however, on theory that five Brussels Pact powers should come to agreement among themselves before inviting any others.)
While disappointed by British intransigence, FonOff believes that British position is untenable and that in time they will have to come some distance in meeting views of other parties. Consequently they are not unduly discouraged over long-term prospects but regret delays which British position will entail.
French regard British suggestion at opening meeting that Strasbourg be selected as capital of federation as merely attempt to sweeten [Page 43] unpleasant pill which was to follow. No objection was taken to suggestion except by Belgians, but French would much prefer Paris. Reason given us is that press facilities are much more efficient here, but real objections obviously more fundamental. No decision was taken on question.
Sent Department 263, repeated London 64, Brussels 19, Hague 6, pouched Luxembourg.