Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, Germany and Austria, Volume VII, Part 2

663.001/11–3054: Telegram

No. 944
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in France¹

confidential
priority

Washington, November 30, 1954—8:15 p.m.

1996. Makins called on Secretary Nov 30² expressing London’s concern reported in London’s 2459³ over project unilateral French approach in Moscow on Austria. Such concern gains support from Mendes’ conversation with Jebb reported Paris’ 2264.⁴

Makins suggested and Secretary agreed to holding tripartite consultation in London Dec 1 or 2 to concert tripartitely French follow-up if any in Moscow. We are opposed to quadripartite conference ambassadors in Vienna which would almost surely become involved discussion substance treaty. This was proposal we rejected at Berlin Conference.

Upon reflection we are opposed to unilateral French approach in Moscow on this matter and you should make every effort dissuade French from such action. Tactically it seems poor since subject to misinterpretation by Soviets. Moreover we consider it important to maintain solid tripartite front as in past on Austria in dealing with Soviets. Unilateral approach re Austria would also have undesirable implications with respect to Germany.⁵

Dulles

1. Drafted by Merchant and cleared in substance by Secretary Dulles. Repeated for action to London and for information to Vienna, Bonn, and Moscow.
2. A brief memorandum of this conversation is in file 663.001/11–3054.
3. Apparently an incorrect citation. Telegram 2459 from London does not concern the subject under discussion.
4. Telegram 2264 summarized Mendès-France’s conversation with Jebb on Nov. 29 as described by British Embassy officials that same afternoon. It reported Mendès-France’s statement that U.S. officials had suggested “diplomatic channels” as the best means for any discussion of his proposal but that he had not liked this idea and preferred the medium of the Ambassadors at Vienna and therefore wished a démarche to this effect at Moscow. (663.001/11–3054)
5. In telegram 2288 from Paris, Dec. 1, Ambassador Dillon reported that the French Foreign Ministry had been informed of the Department of State’s views as requested in this telegram. (663.001/12–154)