340.1 AGB/3–1653: Telegram

The United States Representative at the United Nations ( Lodge ) to the Department of State

confidential
priority

562. For the Secretary from Mrs. Hahn. Re visa application by NGO representative to attend Committee on Status of Women.

Re our conversation this matter last Friday, problem of pending Luckock visa raised at close of meeting of status of women committee this a.m. by Poland with support by USSR and Byelo-Russia. Attack dignified but very firm and charged violation Article 74 rules functional committee as well as Headquarters Agreement.

Polish representative requested reply in committee within 24 hours and request repeated by chair. SYG UN preparing note (see USUN 563)1 for transmittal US today requesting comment for use tomorrow morning’s meeting when appears certain question will be raised again by Soviets.

In view of fact this is third time visa case involving similar circumstances has been raised this committee and in view fact various friendly delegates including UK, France, Dominican Republic (newly elected chairman committee), and Cuba have today requested expeditious and if possible, favorable action by US, important US have answer at latest by opening of meeting Tuesday a.m. If answer negative, delegation requests be furnished statement setting forth explanation US position this matter, taking into account alleged violations headquarters agreement. Otherwise delegation believes US role in committee entire session will be extremely difficult. [Mrs. Hahn.]

Lodge
  1. Not printed.