Office of the Historian

865.014/11–1049: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Acting Secretary of State

secret
niact
Paris, November 10, 1949—2 p. m.

4701. From the Secretary.

1.
When Mr. Bevin speaks to me about the Italian colonies situation, it is probable that he will urge that, in the event that amendments to the present resolution which are reasonably satisfactory to the British fail to carry in the GA, we support
(a).
Postponement, and
(b).
Subsequent United Kingdom action recognizing, possibly provisionally, Cyrenaican independence in the event that the Emir declares it.
2.
In view of the far-reaching strategic implications of a resolution which prevents British from obtaining satisfactory treaty with Cyrenaica, Douglas and I are inclined to think that we should support 1 (a) and, if practicable 1 (b) as well. We understand that Department and our delegation in New York have taken a contrary view, largely based on opinion that 1 (b) is not in accord with the provisions of Italian peace treaty. We would appreciate urgently by this evening Department’s and New York’s cogent reasons why we should not support both 1 (a) and 1 (b).
3.
If we cannot agree to 1 (b) why can we not agree to support postponement if resolution is not reasonably satisfactory to British?

Sent Department 4701. Department pass USUN New York 7.

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