852.2221/1208: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Kennedy) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 8—2 p.m.]
1146. Hemming, secretary of the Spanish Non-intervention Committee, left London today for Burgos to explain to Franco and his staff the British plan for the withdrawal of foreign volunteers from the military forces fighting in Spain. According to Foreign Office sources, a principal objective of Mr. Hemming will be to find out from Franco what his real intentions are with respect to execution of the British plan. Franco’s reply to proposed British plan was so ambiguous and disappointing that further elucidation of the meaning [Page 244] is being sought (see my despatch No. 1040 of August 24th, 193895). If Hemming can return to London with a satisfactory understanding effect with Franco, a meeting of the Non-intervention Committee will be called immediately with a view to putting the machinery of the British plan into operation.
It is reported in today’s press from Spanish sources, that Franco has already expressed his agreement to the imminent withdrawal of about 10,000 men. This is confirmed from official sources who state also that it has the concurrence of Italy. While this may be a step toward the putting into effect of the Anglo-Italian agreement, the declaration of the Barcelona Government at Geneva of its decision for the immediate and complete withdrawal of all non-Spanish combatants on its side, does not make the problem of the British Government any easier. The Prime Minister is committed to Parliament not to put the Anglo-Italian agreement into effect until there has been a substantial withdrawal of foreign volunteers from both sides. Some way will have to be found to make Franco’s concessions appear “substantial” in the face of the unequivocal action of the Barcelona Government. Informed official sources express confidence that a suitable formula to make effective the Anglo-Italian agreement will soon be found.
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