Foreign Relations of the United States, 1950, Western Europe, Volume III

740.5/8–450: Telegram

The United States Deputy Representative on the North Atlantic Council (Spofford) to the Secretary of State

top secret
priority

London, August 4, 1950—1 p. m.

Depto 36. From Spofford for Perkins.

1. Preliminary indications responses Depcirtel July 22¹ show considerably less than hoped for results both on increased forces and on increased defense production, reflecting less feeling of urgency in Europe than in US.

2. Therefore, feel position calls for bringing to bear systematic additional pressure and persuasion over the coming weeks. Hope send shortly suggestions on possible further circular instructions to US missions in NAT countries for action after consideration responses requested August 5. Meanwhile, however, strongly suggest possibility strengthening US hand by insertion appropriate language in supplementary four billion MDAP appropriation bill indicating legislative intent as to conditions on which these additional funds to be supplied.

3. Legislative statements might include two points: (a) that additional Title I funds are primarily for the procurement of equipment for expanded defense forces of recipient countries in accord with integrated NAT defense plans; and (b) additional aid for recipient countries is designed to supplement maximum defense and defense production effort their part consistent economic stability.

4. Recognize danger that seeking any statement in nature legislative conditions may lead imposition excessively narrow restrictions limiting effective administration funds. In present circumstances, however, believe balance considerations favors assuming some risk of this kind as aid in securing necessary effort on part recipient countries. Understand present plans contemplate only change in figure without new language. Suggest in any event that statement legislative intent on lines paragraph 3 should be in committee reports and other legislative history, including presidential statement at time of signature. Actual legislative statement would be preferable if practicable.

[Spofford]

1. Several replies to this circular not previously referred to in circular telegrams of July 26, 28, and 31 are in Department of State file 740.5.