745W.00/11–2152: Telegram
No. 1032
The Ambassador in Egypt (Caffery) to the
Department of State1
priority
1266. Brit Amb yesterday found Naguib “digging in his toes” on Sudan proposals. PriMin indicated unwillingness to issue statement until agreement reached on all major issues. He took exception to omission from proposed Brit text of ref to “liquidation of dual administration”. Stevenson is recommending London accept Naguib’s wording in this connection.
Naguib declined to accept Brit proposals on order of procedure (agreement on principles, electoral commission to begin preparatory work immed, establishment of advisory comm after taking views of Sudanese parl). Naguib refused to call Gov Gen’s comm “advisory” and insisted comm must be established at time constitution is promulgated, i.e., before elections. He rejected Brit contention that establishment comm with mandatory powers constituted change in status of Sudanese and Brit Govt therefore bound by promises consult Sudanese people. PriMin pointedly remarked that establishment comm with power specified in Egypt proposals “little enough in return for relinquishment Egypt’s legal rights in Sudan”.
On question of Gov Gen’s powers to act in emergency, Naguib suggested possibility of defining “emergency”. Brit Amb is making proposal to London in this regard, effect of which wld be to leave Gov Gen free to suspend constitution only in event of imminent financial collapse or threatened breakdown of law and order.
Naguib agreed to need for early elections, Indian membership on electorate comm (London’s 2861 to Dept Nov 19) and informal consultation about composition this comm.
Stevenson notes that there has clearly been a hardening of Egypt position on Sudan due to deterioration of GOE’s internal position. (See mytel 1268 today’s date)2 Throughout interview Naguib referred to domestic enemies who are watching for him to make slightest slip. PriMin was also clearly concerned about reaction Sudanese pro-unity elements to any further concessions (Khartoum’s 12 Nov 13).2
[Page 1894]Brit Amb correctly surmises that Naguib will be unable make any major concessions and is prepared to go to breaking point on issue of Gov Gen’s comm. In view of crucial importance reaching settlement on Sudan question, Stevenson is recommending Brit Govt go long way to meet Egypt viewpoint.
Next mtg with Naguib scheduled Nov 24. In meantime working level discussions on minor points will be undertaken by Brit Emb off, Sudan legal advisor and Egypt offs.
Lt Col Abd Al Nasir told Emb off last night that Major Salyh Salem has been summoned back from Khartoum to take hand in negots. His presence will be helpful.