840.1 AGB/3–1853: Telegram
The United States Representative at the United Nations ( Lodge ) to the Department of State
priority
566. Re visa application by NGO representative to attend Commission on Status of Women:
Re USUN telegrams 562 and 5631, at meeting Status of Women Commission this a.m., Polish delegation followed by delegations Byelorussia and USSR again raised question failure to issue visa to Luckock. Pointed out that at Monday meeting statement by US representative re matter had been requested within 24 hours and that 2 days had now elapsed. US representative stated her Government giving matter attention and she hoped to be able to make statement shortly. After further statement by Polish delegate, chairman (Bernardino, Dominican Republic) intervened and promised statement to Commission within 24 hours. USSR delegate agreed to await such statement by chairman, but made clear would expect definitive statement tomorrow.
Soviets and satellites have adopted new and effective public relations tactic. While charging US action violates Headquarters Agreement and threatens independence UN, statements dignified and moderate in tone. No attack against US representative, but attitude her Government deplored. Representatives important American women’s organizations have indicated to USDel they are upset and disturbed at position US Government this matter.
Hogan (UN Secretariat) has advised that report failure to issue Luckock visa carried BBC last night.
- Telegram 563 not printed.↩