64. Airgram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom1
G–586
In connection with 14th UNGA, Department considering ways and means avoiding divisive atmosphere at very start which results from Chinese representation issue being introduced as agenda item.
Prior to 13th GA, member UKDel, New York, informally told Department British would welcome arrangement which would obviate India’s raising issue as agenda item requiring initial consideration in General [Steering]2 Committee. British expressed view easier handle issue when raised initially in plenary.
Department believes might be useful to ascertain willingness Foreign Office approach Indian Government (either in London or New Delhi) and ask it to refrain from taking initiative this question 14th GAs [Page 102] as GOI has done at last three General Assembly sessions. We feel it is possible GOI willing to listen to British more sympathetically on this issue than if we were to make approach ourselves.
Undoubtedly British would have to develop own arguments to present in support of such request. Department, however, considers that following might be suggested:
1) Prior to 11th GA (except in 1950 when both India and USSR offered resolutions to seat ChiComs) issue generally raised on Soviet initiative, usually in opening plenary.
2) GOI initiative raises difficulties and complications which prevent expeditious procedural disposition of question, thus hindering smooth functioning UN machinery.
3) US feels Indian role as leading speaker and leading tactical strategist this issue not consistent Indian statements re policy non-alignment. Indians have talked great deal about need use UN machinery to improve international understanding. GOI has often urged both US and UK avoid initiatives re what Indians describe as “cold war” issues, especially in early days of session. While not always possible accept Indian advice, US and UK have always carefully considered it, and have recognized essential desirability avoiding controversy in UN re issue where such controversy serves no useful purpose. Whatever India’s convictions re merits China question, must agree Indian initiative in pressing ChiRep issue in UN inevitably disturbs atmosphere and may tend weaken Indian persuasiveness in other efforts avoid useless controversy.
4) This is not question of change in Indian policy re ChiComs but rather development common understanding on methods of handling issue which would avoid starting General Assembly off on divisive note. There would be sufficient opportunity for India to state its position on ChiRep issue in course plenary.
If Embassy has objections or comments re proposed approach to UK, please advise Department prior making such approach. Otherwise, should discuss matter with Foreign Office and determine whether UK willing take initiative on question with India without indicating action taken at US request.