501.BB Palestine/1–1149: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin)
17. 1. In tel dated Jan 71 Griffis2 expresses strong hope Dept will incorporate into pending legislation re US contribution Palestine relief safeguard clause giving Director UNRPR or Dept full discretionary powers re expenditure US contribution. He states it is essential that US contribution be safeguarded and if necessary with held if relief operation emasculated due lack govt cooperation in NE.
2. Dept is studying possibility incorporating into legislation safeguard clause giving SecState discretionary powers over payment US contribution.
3. However, we have informed Griffis3 we believe SYG, acting through Director UNRPR, has unquestioned authority control all expenditures under terms UN resolution, and that we look to SYG and Griffis to assume, full discretionary powers this regard in order insure fulfillment objectives of resolution. In our opinion this applies not only to US funds but to all other contributions as well. Conversely, we believe SYG could not legitimately accord separate and special treatment to US contribution as distinguished from contributions of other govts to UN program.
[Page 643]4. Without making reference to paras 1 and 2, pls take early opportunity convey to SYG informally our interpretation his powers, with view to obtaining his assurances this regard as further safeguard US contribution. You many inform him such questions may arise when Congress takes up this legislation next week.