Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, Western Europe and Canada, Volume VI, Part 2

751.5 MSP/7–2154: Telegram

No. 649
The Ambassador in France (Dillon) to the Department of State¹

top secret
priority

Paris, July 21, 1954—5 p.m.

275. Limit distribution. Dept pass Stassen and Defense. Subject: Offshore procurement in France.

1. I assume there is no intention of placing any further OSP contracts, “follow-on” or otherwise, in France in near future. In view fact that outcome of French action on EDC will have substantial effect on our OSP policy, and in view reports that many directors and share-owners of French metal-working industry, including those of some plants working on OSP orders, are financing anti-EDC campaign, I recommend that we continue to delay placement (or the taking of any commitment short of signature) of additional OSP contracts in France pending outcome EDC debate. If any urgent cases should arise, I should appreciate it if no action is taken until cleared with me.

2. I suggest Washington’s consideration that, if there is any risk of action by U.S. offshore procurement agencies in Europe that would run counter to policy outlined above, immediate instructions be issued by appropriate headquarters. Please advise.

3. Contents this message obviously delicate, imperative they be most closely held.

Dillon

1. Repeated to Paris for USRO and USCINCEUR.