763.00/3–454: Telegram
No. 916
The Acting United States High
Commissioner for Austria (Yost) to the Department of State1
2233. In extended conversation today Raab informed me that agreement had not yet been reached between coalition parties as to basic post-Berlin policy but that we would be consulted as soon as joint policy formulated, probably next week.
Re his recent conversations with Ilyichev, he said in response his inquiries Soviet High Commissioner had (1) agreed bring up in AC March 12 constitutional law of 1946 readjusting Vienna boundaries (we expect bring up earlier in legal directorate in order forestall probable Soviet effort reintroduce unacceptable amendments), (2) declared Soviets still willing four Ambassadors in Vienna resume treaty negotiations. When I suggested there seemed little advantage resuming treaty negotiations until Soviets showed signs willingness withdraw troops, Chancellor agreed no early prospect conclusion of treaty but nevertheless felt even informal exploratory talks among four Ambassadors would be useful (1) to demonstrate to Austrian public all effort to make progress on treaty had not ceased and (2) to feel out Soviet attitude.
Chancellor repeated his assurances there would be no bilateral negotiations with Soviets without prior consultation with Western Powers. When asked whether hopeful Soviets would either turn over USIA enterprises or subject them to Austrian law, he replied latter probably if Austrians would formally recognize Soviet ownership. He did not reply to my comment this would be dangerous step.
Raab indicated he would continue to urge reduction in occupation forces but that this was done for internal political reasons, that he knew Soviets would not agree and that his demands not addressed to us. I pointed out at some length danger this tactic including possibility Soviets might consent to percentage reduction which would be unimportant for them but would destroy utility our already marginal forces. Chancellor recognized force of argument but gave no assurance to abandon propaganda.
Raab admitted there are at present unusually serious difficulties within coalition, arising from economic problems and upcoming provincial elections, but did not appear to desire or expect early [Page 1954] breakdown of coalition. I registered usual plug for maintenance coalition.
Conversation was most cordial and Chancellor promised to consult with us again shortly on these matters.
- Repeated to London, Paris, and Moscow.↩