Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, The Near and Middle East, Volume IX, Part 2

641.74/10–1953: Telegram

No. 1232
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Aldrich) to the Department of State¹

secret

London, October 19, 1953—6 p.m.

1686. Foreign Office stated today Secretary’s suggestion re wording proposed text on availability (Secto 20 October 17) has been concurred in by Robertson and will be put to Egyptians when talks resume Wednesday.

Commenting on bilateral talk between Secretary and Eden, Foreign Office official said confidentially he was “very glad” Secretary had put case re uniforms so strongly since Secretary’s views corresponded exactly with those of Foreign Office. When Embassy officer expressed fear Egyptians might not accept proposals on uniforms outlined by Eden to Secretary, Foreign Office official stated “that event we should probably have another look at it”, adding that in re-examining matter, British would want be very sure what Egyptian intentions actually were. He indicated CIGS taking very strong line on uniform question but Foreign Office still hopeful talks will not break on this point.

Aldrich

1. Repeated to Cairo as telegram 45.