400. Memorandum of a Telephone Conversation Between the Under Secretary of State (Dillon) and the British Ambassador (Caccia), Washington, November 27, 19591

Ambassador Caccia called and said he had a message for Secretary Herter but wondered if he might pass it along to Mr. Dillon. After much reflection on the question of Hunters for Cuba, Ambassador had been asked to tell us his government will postpone the release of the Hunters. This decision was taken even though they know it will create considerable difficulties. The Ambassador said he hoped other countries will attach great importance to the embargo, too.

Mr. Dillon said that we deeply appreciate this decision and he felt certain Secretary Herter will want to send a personal message to Selwyn on this when he gets back to the office on Monday.

Caccia said they are not going to announce anything. If pressed by the Cubans they are going to say they will have to postpone the decision since relations have deteriorated. Caccia wondered if there was any danger of the Italians or anyone else “nipping in” and supplying the planes. Mr. Dillon said he didn’t think so: the only problem might be from the East.

  1. Source: Department of State, Secretary’s Memoranda of Conversation: Lot 64 D 199, November 1959.