772.00/11–3051: Telegram
The Ambassador in France ( Bruce ) to the Department of State
3264. Deptel 32391 re Tunisian situation doubtless crossed Embtel 3218 Nov 292 reporting our most recent talk on subj with FonOff. Since Tunisian requesting exactly those major elements of control which Fr unwilling relinquish it seems inevitable Fr reply to Oct 31 note3 will be largely unfavorable. FonOff states French anxious follow out reform program but Tunisians interested primarily such major polit questions as legislative assemb and control ministries. It believed our views on subj have been made adequately known to FonOff. We will plan of course continue policy reminding Fr periodically desirability following evolutionary policy N. Africa.
Re communicating our views to Chenik Emb feels present situation not entirely auspicious such approach by this Emb for variety reasons including fact it has come to our knowledge that Chenik has decided not approach us at this time.
Cabinet discussing Tunisia tomorrow (see Embtel 3218). Le Monde states press release from Fr Govt will follow session (FonOff confirms this).
In any event no action taken on Deptel 3239 since Tunis comments thereon not yet received.