460.509/7–1651: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Gifford) to the Secretary of State
priority
318. Excon from Linder. In plenary session today tri dels approved WG reports on list II directive and exceptions to security controls, as well as report on 1A list which recommended inclusion 3 items on list I, with reservation by UK on all three matters pending Min’s approval which is expected before Wed night. Agrmt reached on manner of presentation to CG as reported below.
Despite Makins’1 promise of final UK decision by Cab before CG [Page 1149] mtg on all 1A items,2 Berthoud announced this morning that UK position cld not be finally determined without greater study so that no final UK position on remaining 20 items cld be given until second CG mtg approx two weeks hence. Berthoud appeared concerned that effort to rush final decision through Mins before Thurs wld result in freezing of present UK position on all unagreed items. In further extenuation their position Berthoud pointed out UK reservations on some items pending further study wld have advantage avoiding fait accompli charge by other PC’s.
On nature of approach to CG, agreed Linder will make opening statement referring primarily to additional embargo items but indicating US interest in QC and exceptions questions and showing how all three matters constitute package in relations US leg sitn. US statement wld not comment in detail on QC and exceptions matters. UK del wld make presentation list II proposal, giving more detailed explanations and submitting text of proposal at time of his statement. This is subj Min’s approval expected Wed. Fr del wld similarly present exceptions proposal. Neither proposal wld be circulated through COCOM in advance CG mtg. With respect to 33 agreed items, UK and Fr dels at proper time wld indicate that during brief time thus far available to review full US list, they had been able agree include these items list I and that review continuing on remaining items. UK del wld make available list of agreed items only, showing definition change, etc., during CG mtg. US del believes this method presentation, indicating UK and Fr support for agreed items, will help prevent reservations by other PC’s on those items. In our view other PC’s likely learn extent of UK and Fr reservations in any event, so no purpose served by pretending whole list still under review.
Tri dels will meet Wed evenings to review respective statements prior CG mtg.
Sent Dept 318, rptd info Paris 108. [Linder.]