840.20/2–2449: Telegram
The Ambassador in Norway (Bay) to the Secretary of State
147. In conversation with my counselor at Foreign Office today Secretary General Skylstad raised question of Atlantic pact invitation saying Foreign Minister Lange expected Norway would shortly be prepared receive invitation as result his presentation to Storting [Page 122] today and foreign affairs debate next week. Skylstad expressed concern that pact might be signed by seven original powers before Norway had opportunity join discussion in Washington. Norwegian Government, he said, attached great importance from political standpoint to participation in negotiations and hoped Department could arrange timetable accordingly.
Foreign Office informed by Norwegian Ambassador London British Government had mentioned later date possibility that in order expedite action pact might be signed by seven governments in immediate future with other including Norway adhering at later date. British reasoning based on thought that if invitation to join were extended Norway invitations might have to be issued to Denmark, Portugal, Eire and Iceland at same time. Skylstad remarked Denmark obviously not yet ready, Portugal believed procrastinating, Eire extremely doubtful, only Iceland now likely accept. If formation Atlantic pact must await acceptance invitation by all five countries its coming into force might be long delayed. This naturally would be unsatisfactory from Norwegian standpoint.
Replying to question Skylstad indicated Norway will probably politely decline Soviet nonaggression pact proposal following Storting debate next week. For this additional reason Norwegians desire be included in final states [stages?] Atlantic pact negotiations. Norway will have few comments or suggestions to make or draft terms, according Skylstad but wishes to be in position take part in Washington discussions simultaneously with rejection Soviet proposal. Grounds for rejection will be that under UN Charter no need exists for nonaggression agreement and although Norway has stated UN offered insufficient security it nevertheless believes in adherence to UN established principles.
Skylstad said Norwegian Government had no information to show Finland would be subject undue Soviet pressure or occupation if Norway joins western powers. Believes Finns “deep in their hearts” actually believe Norway’s projected move would ultimately strengthen their own position. Sent Department 147, pouched Stockholm, Copenhagen, London.