855.6359/2–547: Telegram

The Ambassador in Belgium (Kirk) to the Secretary of State

top secret

168. For Under Secretary Acheson from Kirk. Verbatim text (translation)1:

“Uranium question is being more and more actively discussed in Belgian press and political circles. Govt will certainly be confronted shortly either by Parliamentary interpellation or draft laws. Certain members of Chamber will more than probably demand that uranium deposits be nationalized or placed under strict control.

It is furthermore evident that public opinion is now aware of fact that our entire uranium production is sold to US. As far as immense majority of public opinion is concerned there has until now been no difficulty but few days ago in mixed commission considering future [Page 793] organization of Army, its President, a PSC Senator, asked me point blank if secret treaty between US and Belgium concerning uranium existed.2 I was able to avoid replying but question might be put to me publicly in such fashion that it would be difficult for me to reply.

All these considerations force me to insist that US Govt in agreement with British Govt let me know what in their opinion can be said on this question and also that they consider possibility of associating certain Belgians in research on utilization of atomic energy for industrial purposes.

I believe it really urgent that this question be examined and settled.”

Kirk
  1. This text is a translation of a memorandum presented to Kirk by Spaak on the evening of February 4.
  2. For text of the Memorandum of Agreement between the United States, the United Kingdom, and Belgium regarding the control of uranium, September 26, 1944, see Foreign Relations, 1944, vol. ii, pp. 10291030.