273. Telegram From the Legation in Laos to the Department of State1
342. Arrival King and Crown Prince in Vientiane and forthcoming opening Assembly are bringing to a head critical difficulties within government.
During hour’s conversation yesterday, Crown Prince told me that he is profoundly disturbed by government’s slowness, indecision and lack of internal cohesion, that Katay insists on prolonging useless negotiations with Pathets while latter consolidate their position in two northern provinces, that he is profiting with contradictory promises which he does not keep and that other Ministers (presumably Phoui and Souvanna) are fed up and prepared to overthrow government this week if Crown Prince agrees.
Savang said his inclination is to counsel delay in view Katay’s forthcoming Bangkok visit and SEATO meeting during which it would be unfortunate if Laos has no government. On other hand,
- (1)
- Katay had, without consulting other Ministers, prepared speech from throne, to be delivered by King before Assembly tomorrow, which breathed neutrality and “peaceful coexistence”, and
- (2)
- Prolonged delay and continued indecision would result in loss of two provinces and perhaps of elections but in response my question, Prince said many Assembly members who had voted for [Page 603] Katay are disillusioned and he believes new government could be set up rapidly and easily. He asked my views.
I replied we had supported Katay government as government national union embracing all important non-Communist parties and as best calculated unite Lao people and win elections. There is no doubt government in general and Katay in particular have been serious disappointment for reasons Prince cited and if it could not be quickly improved, alternatives should be considered. However, it is important to be sure there is a viable alternative. As he had pointed out, it would be unfortunate if Katay’s visit to Thailand were interrupted and Laos were without a government during Bangkok conference.
On other hand, it was also most important King not be maneuvered into making damaging neutralist statements to Assembly. I inquired whether Prince and other Ministers could not insist on eliminating objectionable passages from Throne speech. Prince said he would do his best though constitutionally speech is government’s, not King’s, responsibility. He added he would sound out Assembly members during coming week to ascertain whether rapid change in government would be possible.
Prince concluded this subject by remarking Thais had made serious miscalculations in throwing their weight behind Katay, first because he has engaged in course of policy which endangers Thailand as well as Laos security and, second, because they have alienated other Lao leaders who have much more support in country. I said I hoped Crown Prince could clear up these misconceptions by visit to Bangkok. He replied he hoped to do so in April.
Negotiations with Pathets are bound to fail, Savang declared. Their leaders are Communists and even those who may not be are bound by fear of assassination or by family hostages in China. ICC is completely useless. If present course continues, either elections or two provinces will be lost. Lao people are getting impression government is too weak to deal with Pathets.
Action should be taken within one month by force, if necessary, to restore Royal administration in northern provinces.
I encouraged Prince by direct admonition to stiffen performance of Lao Government by deed not comment on:
- (1)
- Adherence Laos to Manila Pact;
- (2)
- Use of force in northern province.
I referred to Secretary’s visit2 as opportunity for full discussion current critical situation in which US wishes be helpful as possible.
Subsequent telegram3 sets forth my comments on Prince’s views. I shall seek another interview with him before end this week.