891.03/5–051: Telegram
The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State
priority
3113. Embtel 3082, May 4. Latest info re GOI attitude towards food grain bills.
1. Deshmukh MinFin lunched with me yesterday. I explained situation to him touching upon possible effect Nehru’s decision on broader US aid programs which were under active consideration. He expressed deep concern; said it was in his opinion that Nehru shld decide and make clear that conditions in Senate bill did not represent polit strings and did not impugn honor India. He said he wld endeavor obtain aid Rajagopalachari in persuading Nehru take reasonable view matter.
2. I tried arrange chat with Rajaji1 but told he completely booked until May 8.
3. Bajpai told me last evening report in Emb reed and was already on Nehru’s desk with his recommendation. He had not yet had opportunity talk with Prime Minister who still immersed internal affairs.
4. At Ethiopean reception last evening had tried talk Nehru. Told him I understood important msg on food grain from his Emb Wash awaiting his attention. He said, he, too, so understood but he so tied up in internal problems unable study it. For last week in addition numerous mtgs in endeavor iron out disputes in Congress he had been having daily sessions with chief mins six most important states here for conference. Now he must attend sessions AICC. I said impossible discuss matter at social affair this kind but I did wish impress upon him far-reaching effects which his decision might have not only on way in which relations between our two countries might develop but also upon Ind economy during next few years. I had no desire to urge GOI accept aid from US or to intrude. Nevertheless it might be helpful for us to talk over matter before die was cast and I was at his disposal. It seemed me rather important that he shld be fully informed re all aspects matter before he took action. Nehru said I cld [Page 2158] be sure he wld not act hastily and if he shld have doubts about any points he wld send for me.2
- Rajagopalaehari.↩
- In a personal letter to Mr. McGhee dated May 7, Ambassador Henderson wrote in part as follows: “As of this morning I am inclined to believe that Nehru is trying to find some way to back track so that he can accept aid under the terms of the Senate Bill without losing too much face.” (McGhee Files: Lot 53D468: “H” Letters)↩