Foreign Relations of the United States, 1951, Asia and the Pacific, Volume VI, Part 1

790.5/11–2851: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in London

top secret

Washington, December 1, 1951—11:27 a. m.

2758. Embtel 2539 Nov 28. Dept agrees with view further consideration SEA defense given Emb by Brit Govt. “Endless ramifications” have given Dept uneasiness many months and Dept agrees that only high-level political consideration with competent military advice can supply answer. Dept also agrees initial discussions shld be limited US, UK and further agrees that discussions formal defense arrangement such as extension of Pacific Pact premature.¹

Webb

1. For additional documentation on the question of tripartite military staff talks on Southeast Asia, see pp. 332 ff.