862A.181/5–1750: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Czechoslovakia 1
priority
382. Dept shares views expressed para 1 London’s 2709 May 172 re use HICOM travel controls against Czecho. Primary purpose not necessarily reprisal for past actions but indication to Czechs that rights and privilege which presently accrue Czecho under internatl agreements also entail Czech fulfillment basic obligations inherent internatl comity. It possible that this may restrain or slow pace Czech action against Western states.
Indications ur 707 May 13 and ur 722 May 173 Czechs expecting some form restriction barge traffic and overland truck traffic make it incumbent we follow through with action based on calculated risk. If no action taken now can expect new Czech attacks and bargaining position or implied restraining effect lost since Czechs will construe inaction due weakness and indecision.
Accordingly recommend implement course outlined para 3 London reftel namely, “feet-dragging” re permit-issuance, not complete refusal soon necessary tripartite arrangements made. View relationship MPO and HiCom, Dept feels three Ambs Praha shld have discretion guide rather than conduct operations MPO Praha.
Request Embs London and Paris coordinate soonest with Br and Fr FonOffs and Frankfurt with Combined Travel Board officials.
Dept stresses need circumspection this time withholding permits view possible effects third countries, e.g. Neth and Belg. Expression views their Ambs Praha re this action might be desirable before final decision.
Dept continuing study effects action on Barge Traffic will advise soonest.