Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, East Asian Security; Cambodia; Laos, Volume XXI

44. Memorandum From the Director of the Policy Division in the Office or Foreign Military Affairs, Department of Defense (Sullivan), to the Counselor of the Department of State (MacArthur)¹

Washington, April 14, 1955.

SUBJECT

• Comment on Department of State Memorandum of Conversation No. 233 of March 18, 1955²

In considering this matter, the following points were discussed:

1. The Joint Chiefs of Staff consider the Songkla line the last line of defense for Malaya. It is felt that in the event of a conflict in Southeast Asia the line should be drawn much farther north, preferably north of Thailand.

2. There is serious question whether, with the rest of Southeast Asia mainland in enemy hands, any position on the Malaya peninsula is defensible.

3. It is felt that this bid for political support is a likely forerunner to seeking a military commitment in this area.

4. At the present time there exists a bilateral between Thailand and the United Kingdom on the border region in question permitting certain freedom of movement to armed forces in the pursuit of rebels. It would appear that this vehicle might be used, through an interpretation or modification, to achieve the agreement desired by the Australians. Of these, a modification of the existing agreement appears most desirable. If this can be accomplished, the Australians might work out a small infrastructure arrangement to include roads, barracks, storage, and similar facilities.

Charles Sullivan

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 790.5/4–1455. Top Secret.
2. Document 36; No. 233 is a Department of Defense control number.