Office of the Historian

Conference files, lot 60 D 627, CF 192

No. 417
Minutes of a Meeting of the Tripartite Working Group, Berlin, February 4, 1954, 10:30 a.m.

secret
BER MIN–11
Berlin, February 4, 1954, 10:30 a.m.
  • Present
    • United States
      • Mr. MacArthur
    • United Kingdom
      • Sir Frank Roberts
    • France
      • M. Seydoux
1.

Tactics for Today. (a) It was agreed that M. Bidault would be asked by the Chairman, Mr. Eden, to speak first. It was suggested that M. Bidault begin by stating the fundamental importance of the principle of free elections, then a brief, definitive statement on the Bonn–Paris agreements, and close with further remarks on free elections.

(b) Mr. Eden would ask Mr. Molotov for his comments on free elections.

(c) If Mr. Molotov tables a proposal, Mr. Dulles might suggest that the meeting adjourn for fifteen minutes for consideration of the proposal. Mr. Dulles will then make preliminary comments on Mr. Molotov’s proposal. If Mr. Molotov raises again the question of an all-German referendum, Mr. Dulles will carry the burden of argument.

(d) On the second round it was suggested that M. Bidault and Mr. Eden would continue to comment on free elections. Mr. Eden would prod Mr. Molotov to answer questions on the UK Plan.1

2.
Possible Tripartite Document on Bonn-Paris Agreements. Sir Frank suggested that if it appeared that Mr. Molotov planned to continue discussion of the Bonn-Paris agreements it might be desirable to consider tabling a document setting forth the western views on this subject. Mr. MacArthur reserved the U.S. position but said if the British prepared a draft we would be glad to consider it further.
3.
Restricted Session. Sir Frank said Mr. Eden wished to avoid the appearance that the three western powers were attempting to delay the holding of a restricted session. Mr. Eden had stated his preference for holding the restricted session on Saturday. The views of the other ministers will be sought.
4.
Declaration of Intent. The Declaration of Intent2 should be considered again tomorrow in light of any proposal Mr. Molotov might make today.
5.
Tripartite Ministerial Meeting. It was noted that the three Ministers would meet tomorrow at 12:00 at Mr. Dulles’ residence.3 The U.S. Delegation will prepare a resume of the work in progress in the Working Group.
  1. For the British plan, see FPM(54)17, Document 510.↩
  2. For the Declaration of Intent, see BER D–4/4c, Document 511.↩
  3. For a report on this meeting, see Dulte 40, Document 425.↩