751G.02/2–650: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Bruce) to the Secretary of State
585. Parodi received Gullion this morning and in reviewing international situation in Indochina on eve recognition three new states by US and principal Commonwealth powers spoke in following terms:
“US and UK asked two things of us in connection your recognition New Indochina states. First was evolutionary statement. We have not made this statement. Because of situation both in France and Indochina we cannot call our shots. We cannot tell French Parliament that agreements they have just, after much soul searching, ratified are of merely passing value; on eve highly delicate inter-state conference during which allocation of principal economic controls (currency, customs, immigration, etc.) as between France and three states and as between three states themselves is to be made, we cannot afford to kindle unrealistic nationalist appetites whose necessary disappointment by us would have retrograde rather than progressive effects out there at a time when cohesive effort is more than ever necessary. Our intentions are evolutionary as results will show. For instance, we have already told Vietnamese they can establish diplomatic Missions in Washington and London, which constitutes important extension of March 8 agreements. Similar extensions will inevitably follow as justified. Secondly you asked that control of Indochina affairs be transferred from Overseas France Ministry to Quai D’Orsay. This is well on its way to realization and there is agreement in principle that undersecretaryship for the three associate states under Foreign Office will be established. This is of course political and not administrative question. I am hopeful that occasion offered by reshuffling of Bidault Cabinet which is now occurring will not be missed. Events in Indochina have taken a dramatic turn which poses very serious problems for us and for principal non-Communist powers. As I have told your Ambassador, we intend, after profound and thoughtful consideration among ourselves of all elements of situation, to request your views and those of British. Just what form this consultation will take, whether through diplomatic channels or by proposal by us for three way talks, has not been decided.”
Sent Department 585 repeated London 193 Department pass Saigon 47.