Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, General: Economic and Political Matters, Volume I, Part 2

460.509/4–2754: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in France¹

secret
priority

Washington, April 27, 1954—7:20 p.m.

3854. Excon. Embassy should immediately inform French background U.S. decision (Department telegrams to London 5616, 5676 repeated Paris Topol 1261, 3844²) order minimize confusion as to U.S. position and avoid as far as possible unfavorable French reaction seeming switch U.S. position.

French may be told of personal understanding regarding “peel-off” between Stassen Thorneycroft entered into during luncheon first day London trilaterals as effort by Stassen dissuade British from tabling short embargo list. Peel-off procedure obviously lesser two evils and U.S. not aware at that time considerable support (including excellent French backing) which subsequently developed for many aspects current control program. Stassen-Thorneycroft agreement not correctly understood at official level U.S. delegation which assumed subsequent discussions at that level in London and Document 1563³ left subject open for CG decision. Stassen, however, when matter brought his attention after return delegation from CG and raising of question by British reaffirmed his personal commitment stating U.S. must abide by earlier understanding as only honorable course action.

U.S., of course, at no time knowingly pursued two differing courses and assumes French will understand how situation developed. Also trusts U.K. will only attempt invoke “peel-off” method sparingly in order avoid feeling in COCOM British filling Moscow orders before other countries have opportunity compete.

Embassy should express U.S. appreciation for general French support during trilaterals and CG and assure them all future U.S. actions during COCOM review and before next CG will be discussed thoroughly with French.

Smith

1. This telegram, drafted by Buckle and cleared with the Economic Defense Staff in the Department of State as well as with high-ranking officials in the Departments of Commerce and Defense and the Foreign Operations Administration, was repeated to London.
2. Neither printed; concerning telegram 5616 to London, see footnote 2, supra; telegram 5676 to London, Apr. 26, reaffirmed Stassen’s commitment to his agreement with Thorneycroft. (460.509/4–2654)
3. Not found in Department of State files.