740.5/9–750: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Bruce) to the Secretary of State
priority
1205. 1. I took advantage of Alphand’s call on me this morning to discuss with him Schuman’s letter of September 6 communicated in Embtel 1204, September 7 asking for precise replies to French Government’s memoranda of August 5 and 17. Pleven, Schuman and Petsche have of course made very clear to me importance attached by French Government to this matter and I will shortly communicate to you my further views thereon.
2. Alphand emphasized what I have already heard frequently from above-mentioned Ministers to the effect that when the Parliament reconvenes in October the Cabinet expects to be attacked for making commitments for increased military forces without having reached any agreement with the US as to financial and material aid which might be received in this regard to supplement domestic budgetary provisions.
3. Alphand is most anxious that the three Foreign Ministers agree to the idea tentatively approved by Spofford, Dixon, and himself in London that these three deputies convene secretly and informally in Washington immediately after the NATO Council meeting and proceed speedily to reduce to draft form recommendations re the establishment of combined procedures for procurement financing, etc. In my judgment this suggested small working group would present distinct advantages and if Spofford is favorable I hope the idea will be approved.