396.1 GE/5–354: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Department of State
Secto 74. Sent Paris 171, repeated information London 111. Limit distribution. I urged Bidault last night to obtain French agreement for us to reply in next day or so to Soviet note re European security and NATO.1 I pointed out that by delivering our reply to Soviets early this week we would give to world an indication of Western solidarity and strength of purpose at a time when such an indication is much needed.
Bidault indicated that there was great reluctance in Paris to send reply at this juncture. After further urging he said he would do his best to obtain French agreement so that it could be dispatched later this week. I have strong impression French are unwilling to move until after French Parliament reconvenes and possibly discusses foreign policy and till after conversations on Indochina have begun at Geneva. Therefore, suggest Dillon press the French on this later this week.