840.00/2–249: Telegram
The Ambassador in Belgium (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
177. Spaak says London meeting Foreign Ministers Brussels Pact very satisfactory as to climate and general progress. But in strict confidence, he says he very disturbed lack real forward movement on military matters. After ten months existence, he considers little accomplished to increase actual military strength Western Union. Although plans have been drawn for defense on Rhine and several high command staffs and headquarters established, there still seem to be too many generals and no armies whatever. Although a study has been made on what armaments and equipment different countries can produce, he disappointed that nothing effective has been accomplished in allocating responsibility for manufacture and supply weapons among five powers, even matter small arms and machine guns. Spaak says 12 billion Belgian francs are talked of for his total military budget, which he can defend if this sum is to be wisely spent for common good. (Military budget 1949 presently envisaged would total about 6½ billion francs.)
Spaak also feels much more positive action required in military field and he inclined blame command setup. He says that while each Defense Minister has his own chief staff, and military committee presided over by Field Marshal Montgomery also has another complete staff organization with various headquarters. In practice these organizations are not tied together in any manner as to responsibility and authority. He would wish example American-British combined staff in late war could be emulated and that right early.
Sent Department 177, repeated London 13, Paris 26, The Hague 14.