350/1–3150: Telegram
The United States Delegation to the Trusteeship Council to the Secretary of State
162. Tcdel 49. USDel foresees that beginning February 6 TC will have several days general discussion on Jerusalem question which will include debate, fostered by Iraq, on whether Garreau Plan or any other plan not strictly within limits of GA Resolution December 9 should be considered by TC. USDel believes that in general it should refrain from taking part in these discussions and should merely listen to what other delegates have to offer. Once atmosphere is cleared we shall be better able to recommend course of action. However, in event that during initial debate strong sentiment is built up against Garreau plan on basis its legality vis-à-vis GA Resolution and formal motion against it is introduced, USDel recommends it be authorized vote for motion if appropriately worded. While Garreau plan appears to have some merit as basis for discussion, we believe we should be in a vulnerable position if we supported his plan against stricter interpretation GA Resolution.
Re constitution TC as committee of whole or formation subcommittee to prepare statute. While fully mindful of instructions contained in paragraph seven Deptel 641, December 13,1 USUN, USDel believes situation since has changed somewhat and that it might not contribute to successful action by TC on Jerusalem if we should endeavor persuade TC to sit as committee of whole. Such a committee would intensify danger of lengthy speeches and political maneuvering. While there are also number of disadvantages re formation subcommittee, USDel inclined on balance believe more can be accomplished by such small group working so far as may prove practicable in privacy. While we feel USDel should not in general participate in discussions re committee we would recommend authorization to go along with desire of majority of TC in this matter. We presume that in event subcommittee is formed US should seek to avoid membership on committee but should not press this to point where it might appear we are unwilling to assist in drafting statute.