Office of the Historian

795.00/11–3050: Telegram

The Chargé in the United Kingdom (Holmes) to the Secretary of State

top secret
niact
London, November 30, 1950—8 p. m.
[Received November 30—3:17 p. m.]

3195. For immediate delivery to Secretary. Cabinet has just met and decided that Prime Minister should make immediate trip to Washington to confer with President on problems of mutual concern including Korea as well as other matters of pressing common interest. Prime Minister is winding up foreign affairs debate tonight 9:30 London time. He feels that he must then announce his intention going Washington. He would like very much to be able to say this in agreement with President. Government has troublesome domestic political problem especially with certain elements own party. It would in my opinion be in general interest of all if word can reach Prime Minister in time. If President agreeable telephone me giving simple OK without revealing substance.1

Holmes

  1. A note on the source text by the chief watch officer of the Department of State indicated that London felt telephone communication was impossible at that time and that a reply should be sent by cable. As a result, the following message was transmitted to London in telegram 2837, November 30, 5 p. m.:

    “Secy discussed with Pres (urtel 3195) who is agreeable. You may so inform PriMin. No publicity will be given here until after announcement London. Franks received similar message and now being informed our affirmative answer.” (795.00/11–3050)

    Mr. Attlee announced on November 30 that he would visit Washington for talks with President Truman which took place between December 4 and 8. On December 2, Mr. Attlee conferred in London with Messrs. Pleven and Schuman.

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