357.AC/5–1950: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Douglas) to the Secretary of State
2795. Embtel 2670, May 15.1 Furlonge said today that he understood that Drew and Kirkbride had discussed in Amman possibility Jordan negotiating with Israel through PCC machinery. Kirkbride has reported that, in view Jordan Cabinet deadlock over question resumption direct negotiations with Israel, it might be good idea for [Page 903] US and UK to encourage Jordan to accept PCC offer. Kirkbride emphasized, however, that there should be no pressure on Jordan to accept and that Jordan should not be encouraged to consult with other Arab states on this question. Furlonge said now that AL political commission has adjourned, Foreign Office concurs Kirkbride’s line and is prepared join with US in giving appropriate encouragement to Jordan.
From remarks which Furlonge dropped, we gather Foreign Office is not at all optimistic re possibility Jordan reaching settlement with Israel through PCC machinery. Foreign Office’s principal interest in proposal seems to lie in fact that its acceptance would result in reconciliation differences between Abdullah and his Cabinet.
Sent Department 2795; repeated information Geneva 74.
- Not printed: it provided some interim views of Mr. Furlonge on this question (357.AC/5–1550).↩