762B.00/11–2950: Telegram
The Director of the Berlin Element, HICOG (Page) to the Office of the United States High Commissioner for Germany, at Frankfort1
priority
861. Be Deptel 3872 to Frankfort repeated Berlin 182. Basic assumption on which we have been proceeding re Berlin elections is that we should avoid any form overt intervention. As noted Berlin’s 740 to Frankfort repeated Department 656, spectacle free elections conducted for first time by Germans themselves without allied intervention constitutes most potent force in ideological fight against communism. Any evident US attempt influence Berlin voters would have most unfortunate consequences. Injection military defense angle by US could only be interpreted as effort persuade voters against supporting SPD.
American media including RIAS and Neue Zeitung doing effective job impartial coverage election campaign with emphasis on anti-Commie significance and importance everyone voting. RIAS has made air time available every day except Sunday for speakers all parties and in addition this week carrying fifteen minute talks by Magistrat official reporting to people on work city government. During last 48 hours before elections RIAS will carry frequent appeals to citizens to vote. [Page 902] Reuter will record special appeal which will be broadcast periodically by RIAS. Berlin press and political leaders similarly stressing importance large turnout voters. Commie efforts persuade or prevent West Berliners from voting most likely result in greater vote.
Allied Commandants considering release statement immediately after elections expressing satisfaction this demonstration democratic self-government noting significance large participation as evidence Berliners not dissuaded by Commie threats or blandishments and pledging continued cooperation with legally elected authorities to safeguard and promote welfare of city and inhabitants.
For reasons indicated, strongly recommend no effort be made influence Berlin elections.
Sent Frankfort 861 repeated information Department 768.
- The source text was sent as 768 to the Department of State.↩