740.5/12–550
The Secretary of Defense (Marshall) to the Secretary of State
Dear Mr. Secretary: I refer to our previous conversation concerning the Canadian proposal for reorganization of the North Atlantic Treaty structure.1 After looking into the matter I have concluded that we should not agree to a major reorganization of the Treaty structure at this time.
During the past fifteen months of its life the Treaty Organization has been confined to perfecting basic plans. These plans are still under negotiation and a complete blueprint for effective results from the Treaty has yet to be secured. During this “paper planning” stage the top committees of the Organization, including the Defense Committee, [Page 525] have not had roles requiring continuous practical efforts and therefore their full capacity has not been explored. If there is fault in coping with NATO responsibilities I think it is not primarily because of the type of organization. Until present planning is completed and we move into an “operational” phase of the Treaty it would seem advisable to postpone any major adjustment.
As specific guidance for Mr. Spofford I recommend that the United States position should be to have a sympathetic interest in the Canadian proposal, but we deem it advisable to limit these matters to study pending the outcome of present considerations on the creation of defense forces and the attendant reorganization of the military elements in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
Faithfully yours,