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  4. Document 130

945C.61/10–3052: Telegram

The Consul General at Salisbury (Hoover) to the Department of State

confidential
Salisbury, October 30, 1952—6 p.m.

47. Local press quotes political correspondent London Times1 saying US Govt much interested federation and will send minister when accomplished. Basis US interest said expand private investment.

Publication this item has encouraged federation, undermined neutral position ConGen and weakened ConGen standing US representative.

Whether Rhodesians will approve federation highly uncertain. If Dept wishes remain uncommitted, suggest instruction ConGen give press statement that effect. Advantage remaining uncommitted is possibility influencing SR adopt more liberal race policies event federation successful.

Hoover
  1. The story actually appeared in the Financial Times of London as Hoover indicated in his despatch 62 to the Department of State on Oct. 31, 1952 (770.00/10–3152).↩