851T.01/12⁴⁄₆

Memorandum by Mr. Perry N. Jester of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs

Reference is made to previous memoranda on the subject of recommending the appointment of a personal representative of the President with the rank of ambassador or minister to work with Lord Swinton at Accra, and to represent the interests of this Government and nation near the governments of the United Nations’ territories in Africa.

[Page 43]

Following the return of the file on the subject mentioned just above from the Secretary’s Office with the directive that we reconsider the matter with a view to recommending an appointment of medium rank (interpreted to mean that the appointment of a personal representative of the President to the territories named was not desired). Mr. Villard stated that in his opinion it would not now be necessary to refer this matter to the War Department for their concurrence or approval; that with regard to the appointment of a Commissioner or other State Department representative, this Department could make and carry out a unilateral decision.

[Here follow suggestions as to the choice of a Commissioner and an assistant.]

Perry N. Jester