840.70/11–744: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in the United Kingdom (Gallman)
9406. For EITO Delegation, reEmbs 9658, November 7.76 Department is surprised to learn that Interim Commission is not yet functioning either officially or unofficially as a bipartite body. Department had gained the impression from the urgent request received for instructions for Clay and other communications that Clay and Barrington-Ward were in operation and that the Soviets had not yet determined how they would participate. It seems to the Department that the Commission should begin functioning at the earliest date, and that the British should be urged to appoint and instruct their Commissioner. We hope the British will take appropriate action without delay. The Soviets, of course, can participate whenever they wish. In view of the urgency of transportation and [Page 856] equipment questions arising, the need for an authoritative body to consult with the military and Continentals seems essential.
As you know, plans are being made in Paris for the establishment of transportation committees to service the military and French requirements. We intend to propose that these committees tie into the Interim Commission. We assume that SHAEF is still anxious to see the Interim Commission established and operating.
- Not printed.↩