850.33/9–2950: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the United States High Commissioner for Germany (McCloy), at Frankfort1
2464. Personal for McCloy from Byroade. During latter days NATO Conference2 in N.Y. there was considerable side talk as to extent Gers had changed their attitude, particularly in Schuman Plan negots, since it had become public knowledge West was discussing Ger rearmament. At one time during a small mtg of the six For and Def Mins, Moch made this point emphatically. We had been inclined not to take these comments at face value.
In raising this matter with me during private conversation, Bech3 (Luxembourg) said while there was merit on Ger side on some of matters that have arisen recently and that his Govt believed Ger position, rather than that of Fr, to be correct, nevertheless he was personally convinced present talk of rearming Ger was having its effect upon attitude of Gers as regards interest in and cooperation in Schuman Plan.
Reports from US (Bonn 165, Sept 244) well as Fr sources now indicated Ger attitude less cooperative recently as they felt their position strengthened by apparent eagerness of Allies to sue for Ger mil support. In view great importance attitude of Gers during this period while Allies are attempting reach agreement on Ger participation in common defense, well as long-range importance successful outcome Schuman Plan, suggest you may wish point out to Adenauer this feeling that Ger cooperation has decreased exists generally among Western nations and that, in our view, talk drawing Ger into common [Page 753] defense scheme, far from lessening need for econ coop, makes more imperative rapid and satis conclusion of Schuman Plan negots to whose success we attach great importance.
Sent Frankfort, rptd Paris, Personal for Bruce, rptd London, Personal for Holmes. [Byroade.]