284. Telegram From the Mission to the United Nations to the Department of State1

2291. Opening Date of 19th Session. Deptel 1530.2

We, also, have been concerned with possible unfortunate effects of opening 19th Session shortly before US elections. Some days ago Stevenson inquired of Dean (UK) whether UK would be prepared to take lead in proposing later opening date. Dean has told us he expects to be able give reply Dec 2.

In meantime, pursuant reftel Yost raised question informally with Bunche, to whom advantages of delay did not have to be explained. We emphasized, however, fact that capital improvement program would constitute excellent reason. Bunche was entirely sympathetic but did not feel SYG could take initiative in proposing delay. He believed some delegation or delegations other than US could do so and that in that case SYG could concur, noting that extra time would be very useful in assuring completion building program.

Subsequently, at SC luncheon today Bunche mentioned matter to SYG in Yost’s presence. SYG said that he had already been giving serious consideration to this matter since he recognized serious disadvantages of having Article 19 confrontation while US election campaign in progress. He was, therefore, also sympathetic but not sure building program could be cited as reason for delay, since he had been assured work could be completed in August. Bunche and we pointed out that construction people rarely complete a job as soon as they expect. (Some days ago Vaughan told Yost he expected to complete work before GA opening but any unforeseen interruption or delay could make this impossible.) SYG concluded by saying he would give further consideration to problem.

Incidentally, in course of conversation, SYG inquired whether US is still determined to push Article 19 issue. Yost replied that our views on financial responsibility UN members, our interpretation of Charter, and our political commitments to US Congress make it certain that we shall do so unless in meantime Sovs find some means of making sufficient payment on arrears so that Article 19 would no longer apply to them. Naturally, we hope the latter will occur. SYG remarked that he had had some indication from Poles that they might follow “Yugoslav formula,” [Page 631] i.e., make payments for Congo operations after Nov 1961. However, he had no such indication from Sovs and is deeply concerned with problem and its possible repercussions.

Plimpton
  1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, IO/UNP Files: Lot 71 D 504, UNGA Position Papers, 1953–1967, Timing of GA Sessions. Confidential.
  2. See footnote 2, Document 282.