326. Editorial Note
On May 13, Prime Minister Macmillan informed the House of Commons that Her Majesty’s Government could no longer advise British shipowners to refrain from using the Suez Canal and that toll payments could be made in pound sterling through a new Number 1 Special Account (see footnote 3, supra). Macmillan also explained that the existing Number 1 Egyptian Account, containing assets received prior to July 26, 1956, would remain blocked. (Telegram 6168 from London, May 13; Department of State, Central Files, 974.7301/5–1357)
The next morning at the Secretary’s Staff Meeting, the following remarks were made concerning the British decision:
“Mr. Dillon noted that we have passed a milestone now that the UK has allowed its shipping to proceed through the Suez Canal once more. He reported that yesterday he notified the oil companies informally and also the US Navy, which uses the canal principally for tanker traffic that the Department has no objection to the use of the waterway. In response to a question from the Secretary, Mr. Lincoln White said that he has made a number of statements to the press explaining that the Government has lifted restrictions and reverted to the situation which obtained in August 1956, that is, that payments are to be made under protest in accordance with US Treasury regulations.” (Tentative Notes; ibid., Secretary’s Staff Meetings: Lot 63 D 75)