Editorial Note
Continuing its closed-session debate on the question of appointment of a secretary-general, the Security Council on October 20 centered its discussion on the Indian proposal for submitting new nominations for the post. Yugoslavia, the United Kingdom, and Cuba announced they would not support the plan but France and the Soviet Union indicated endorsement. Ecuador would abstain on the measure as it stood but could accept the move if it were modified. (USUN secret summary No. 82 (telegram 713), October 21, File No. 310.5/10–2150)
The Security Council resumed discussion of the question in private session on October 21, at which time the Indian Representative withdrew the Indian proposal. Thereupon the Council approved a proposal by the Soviet Union for an informal meeting of the five permanent members to consult further and to report the results not later than October 24; the vote was 7 to 0 with 4 abstentions (United States, United Kingdom, Norway, Yugoslavia). It was agreed that the Security Council would reconvene at 11 a. m., October 25, to consider the report of the five-power talks. (USUN secret summary No. 83 (telegram 716), October 22, File No. 310.5/10–2250)
A meeting of the five permanent members on October 23 failed to come to any agreement. Four new names were suggested: Padilla Nervo of Mexico, Charles Malik of Lebanon, Rau of India, and Romulo of the Philippines; the first three were proposed by the Soviet Union, the last by China. The United Kingdom Representative (Jebb) indicated preference still for Lie, but said he would not veto any of the names mentioned but simply abstain. Ambassador Austin stated that the United States could not support any candidate except Lie. The Soviet Representative declared support of any of the candidates except Lie. China indicated Padilla Nervo, Charles Malik, or Romulo [Page 157] would be acceptable. Chauvel of France implied no French objections to any of the nominees although Lie was preferred: “He would be willing to support any candidate recommended by seven Security Council members who would not be vetoed.” (USUN secret summary No. 84 (telegram 721), October 24, 1:12 a. m., File No. 310.5/10–2450)