641.74/4–1453: Telegram
No. 1143
The Ambassador in the United
Kingdom (Aldrich) to the Department of
State1
secret
London, April 14, 1953—5
p.m.
5574. Foreign Office has given us following details of plans for opening negotiations with Egypt, some of which modify earlier position as set forth Embtel 5533, April 11:
- 1.
- British Embassy Cairo being instructed suggest April 27 as date for opening negotiations. Foreign Office believes this date will be acceptable Egyptians for reasons set forth Cairo’s 2238, April 13.2
- 2.
- UK delegation will be headed by Stevenson and Robertson is being designated as co-delegate.
- 3.
- Robertson leaving here tomorrow night for Fayid. On April 16, Her Majesty’s Government will issue statement stating that Robertson relieved as GOC MELF and Stevenson and he appointed conduct talks with Egypt “on outstanding problems” between two countries which are to begin “shortly”. Statement will also announce General Festing will be acting GOC until arrival General Nicholson.
- 4.
- Foreign Office will try “fob off” further press inquiries re substance conversations and strongly hope Egyptians can do likewise in order avoid situation such as that mentioned first paragraph Embtel 5533. In this connection, Foreign Office aware dangers 11–day hiatus, but feels they are less than those involved in postponing announcement opening negotiations until nearer 27th.
- 5.
- Churchill considers it essential there should be full and formal meeting at outset negotiations at which UK delegation would make [Page 2048] “proper exposition” UK views before adjourning into sub-committee. Foreign Office thought Stevenson and Robertson would be able handle this exposition in such way as not to convey impression to Egyptians that they are being asked at that point to agree to interrelationship five points. Foreign Office added that Robertson has shown acute understanding during his consultations here of difficulties which Egyptians face.
Aldrich