740.00119 Council/3–1348: Telegram
The United States Deputy for Austria at the Council of Foreign Ministers (Reber) to the Secretary of State
1042. Delsec 1635. From Reber (repeated Vienna for Keyes and Erhardt Eyes Only). I had opportunity to discuss with both French and British representatives separately the organization of Austrian armed forces (reference Deptel 844 March 10).1 Both are in agreement that it would be useless at this time to submit or to discuss any formal proposal in AC Vienna. Pending further progress toward treaty settlement, only strengthening of Austrian police gendarmerie and customs guards seems to offer reasonable chance of success. In this connection, it is felt that three western powers should agree among themselves as to desirability of steps to be taken in this connection before notifying AC of their intentions to do so.
[Page 1359]Whereas it is recognized that Austrian Government will have to be brought into discussions at an early date, an agreement in principle should first be reached among western powers for fear premature disclosure through Austrian Government might give rise difficulties AC. French deputy is without instructions in this respect, but is prepared to raise question with his government as soon as it appears treaty unlikely. British representative has only considered arming police in British Zone, but it would be prepared to consider extension to other western zones and discussions with US regarding availability of equipment.
Should treaty prospects be improved, French deputy is prepared to suggest early organization Austrian armed forces so that establishment thereof can be completed at time of evacuation, thereby providing form of guaranty internal security as soon as occupation forces are withdrawn. Any proposal of this sort, however, at this time would, in his opinion, be premature and likely to meet strong Soviet opposition. Colonel Parker asks foregoing be transmitted Department of the Army.
Sent Department as 1042, repeated Vienna 29.