751G.00/5–1354: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in France1
niact
4064. Limit distribution. Serious doubts about wisdom and efficacy public declaration suggested Paris 4343,2 particularly prior to your discussion with French Government along lines Deptel 40233 and in view conditions in paragraph 2(b). Assuming Laniel gets vote of confidence today and conversations entered into shortly thereafter we will continue to bear this suggestion in mind and decide on issuance declaration in light of situation in France as we see it developing.
Recognize problem you have underlined that insistence upon French acceptance specific right of withdrawal from French Union may discourage even strongest supporters of continued French action. However, firmly believe that it essential remove any taint colonialism in order attract vital Asian support and forestall opposition other Asian and Middle Eastern countries. In talking to Schumann and Laniel Friday (Paris 4347)4 you should emphasize this concern of ours and our belief that only way achieve these results would be through provision of this right of withdrawal. Fact that no public declaration contemplated now renders academic question of exclusion this provision in public presentation.
Regarding location negotiations, we strongly favor Paris over Washington for many reasons, including fact that French position much more uncertain than ours and you could more effectively explain our position and influence French position than Bonnet’s cables.