751G.00/3–1651: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Bruce) to the Secretary of State
5476. Kef Saigon tel 1622 Mar 14 (rptd Paris 705).1 We do not believe newly-formed French Govt likely view IC problems in light different from that of its predecessor. With respect gen question Bao Dai—Huu relations, FonOff officials, while admitting French Govt did take a hand in recent Vietnamese Cabinet crisis, state French Govt keeping hands off this contest and views it as internal struggle for power Vietnam. It seems inevitable, however, French Govt wld take strong stand in event clash between Bao Dai and Huu developed to point where it threatened seriously impede French effort IC. It also seems likely that De Lattre, given his temperament and inclinations, wld take a hand in matter, either with or without instructions from Paris, even before such a struggle had progressed to point of having serious adverse effect on IC situation.
[Page 401]In view Min Associated States responsibility for IC problems and known FonOff reluctance become too closely involved in IC problems unless they relate to foreign policy, any French intervention from Paris on this matter wld probably come from Min Associated States or, if problem considered sufficiently important, might be matter for discussion in Council of Mins. There have been no indications here that French Govt was considering giving up on Bao Dai solution. De Lattre’s statements quoted in para Nr 3 Saigon tel 1694 [1604]2 Mar 11 (rptd Paris 694) give indications his thinking on this subject. While FonOff officials have expressed regret Bao Dai’s failure exert leadership at time of crisis, they have certainly given no implication of belief that Huu wld himself provide solution. On contrary, French Govt must be aware of Huu’s limited natl appeal in Vietnam and wld hardly be likely support him to extent of eliminating Bao Dai at this juncture. Re question whether Vietnam to be monarchy or republic, FonOff officials state such decision can be reached only after restoration peace permitting elections and do not consider this question as one of current importance.
In this connection, French correspondent familiar with IC scene recently remarked to us that elections for assembly even in peaceful areas might at present carry risk that some Viet Minh adherents might be elected and thus be given opportunity embarrass both French and Vietnamese.
It is believed that in gen French polit attitudes toward IC are likely, in absence fundamental change in situation, continue in their present path. Emb will, however, continue follow this question and report any pertinent developments.
Dept pass Saigon, sent Dept 5476 rptd info Saigon 359.