846E.2395/8–351: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Ceylon

secret

53. Deptel 50 Aug 1, rptd London 748; Dept Aug 2 showed copy newspaper reports Second Secy Ceylon Emb and made fol comments re rubber:

1.
Newspaper leaks extremely unfortunate and place any US and GOC negotiators in untenable position. Press articles seem have taken position re terms for negotiation, which compromise both parties. Official GOC determination of willingness to discuss original proposal still unavailable. Ability to discuss original proposal now in question due publicity.
2.
Necessitates review entire situation.
3.
GOC requested to indicate its position re basis for negotiation and what it desires be done, realizing inadvisability sending US rep Ceylon now, which might serve confirm rumors.

Ceylon rep appeared unaware publicity and genuinely dismayed. Will contact GOC re position for negots and procedure.

Acheson