501.BC Kashmir/4–2949: Telegram
The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State
us urgent
niact
481. In absence Nehru and Bajpai I fear there is little which Embassy can do effectively and by endeavoring bring pressure on Indian officials as suggested Comkas 40,1 April 29 shall be uselessly abandoning advantageous position we have hitherto held of non-interference in negotiations between UNCIP and GOI. This position once abandoned cannot be regained. We would not like abandon it unless we felt sacrifice would yield worthwhile results.
Only two officials are here with whom we could appropriately talk—Ayyanger. Minister Communications acting temporarily as Minister External Affairs and KPS Menon who is actually in charge Ministry. Neither official has any powers his own re Kashmir and transmission by them to Nehru and Bajpai of representations on my part would not it is believed affect final decision. US is already bearing more than its share responsibility with American member on UNCIP and with American plebiscite administration.
[Page 1703]After listening Lozano’s oral explanations today we inclined agree that latest truce terms are as fair as any which can be evolved and that if they are rejected there is little more UNCIP can do in this regard.
We wondering whether in view atmosphere generated London during recent commonwealth conference, UK which has not been compelled share any great responsibility of late this matter might not well be in best position point out to Nehru and Bajpai, weekending with Mountbatteris,2 importance acceptance. We do not believe detailed knowledge of truce proposals necessary for British in making representations although they should of course be in possession of essential facts as set forth in Comkas 39.3
If Department feels regardless consideration advanced above we should approach GOI we shall do all we can upon receipt appropriate instructions.
Sent Department, repeated London. Repeat to Karachi if desired.