033.1152/7–1351: Telegram
The Ambassador in Spain (Griffis) to the Secretary of State 1
39. In 50 minute roundtable interview this afternoon with members Senate fon relations comm, during introductory exchanges Franco expressed appreciation US action in World War II, rehabilitation Europe and stand in Korea, despite lack of appreciable aid to Spain.
Question and answers summarized as follows:
Wiley: In view Span experience fighting communism, what suggestions can you give us?
Franco: Communism dangerous both as ideology and force. Useless combat one and not other; ideology more dangerous because appeals to masses and intellectuals.
Smith: Would Spain be willing play part as NATO member?
Franco: Spain has always recognized her responsibilities in Europe and will continue to do so in defense against communism. But some countries have not wanted Spain in NATO and have thereby created reaction among their people and among Span people. At this very moment certain countries are opposing in Wash our association with NATO. Even if we could become a member our collaboration would be ineffective because of continued opposition within NATO.
McMahon: No question.
Sparkman: At UN where as member US del I proposed amendment 1946 resolution on Spain, principal objection some countries was lack of freedom of speech, press, assembly and religion in Spain. Any comment?
Franco: Liberty not same in all countries or all sitns; in anarchy all liberties perish. In Spain some freedoms are limited as compared to US but you don’t have same sitn. I call attention to stability here in contrast to France and Italy.
Hickenlooper: No question, but hopeful of greater future understanding between Spain and US.
Gillette: No question. Appreciate courtesies here and hope to be able to reciprocate.
Brewster: Overwhelming Senate vote in favor aid Spain is convincing evidence Amer people favor improved relations. Much [Page 831] credit due Amb Lequerica. Am happy we have worthy competent Amb here.
Green: We appreciate opportunity to meet you and will inform our colleagues.
Franco: Pls express gratitude members Senate House who have worked for better relations.
Green: Have you any questions for us?
Franco: We know Commies trying foster climate neutrality especially among left wing Socialists and labor leaders. This propaganda dangerous because appeals to people’s hatred of war. Military not affected by this but politicians are. We hope you will return and stay long enough to see we are trying improve standard living and build up defense potential. Will also see Span people are simple peace loving and well disposed toward US.
Brewster: Are we to gather you willing cooperate with us in military and econ fields?
(Interruption but assent understood.)
Wiley: How many men could Spain furnish if full equipment were available?
Franco: We have good infantry and excellent officer corps but our equipment restricted by industrial production. In civil war one had 1,200,000 soldiers. Today we could mobilize 2,000,000.
Wiley: How much does a Span soldier cost?
Franco: About a third as much as US soldier. It would cost more if he fought outside Spain than inside.
Gillette: Would Span forces be prepared fight outside Spain?
Franco: That would depend on sitns both in and outside Spain.
Smith: If NATO countries were attacked, would Spain help?
Franco: That would depend on our agreements.
Smith: Would you be willing to make such agreements?
Franco: Of course.
General atmosphere of meeting informal and cordial. All members of Senate party and several Emb officers were present. It was agreed discussion would be kept confidential.
- Repeated to London and Paris.↩