711.56396/8–1754: Telegram
No. 373
The Secretary of
State to the Embassy in the
Philippines
607. From Robertson to Ambassador. Department giving consideration advisability Secretary raising bases question at Philippine-U.S. Council meeting emphasizing settlement these problems should be first step Philippine contribution to mutual defense. We recognize possibility any publicity revival this question especially title issue might create unfortunate atmosphere for following Southeast Asia conference and furnish ammunition ultra-nationalists and Communists. Proposal raise the question has not yet been discussed with Defense as we wish first obtain your views possible political repercussions and desirability raising question this time. Do you believe it feasible discuss bases in context mutual aid without raising title issue but rather stressing need for expanding and strengthening existing bases and devoting proceeds unused defense assets this objective.1
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Ambassador Spruance replied on Aug. 18:
“For [Assistant] Secretary Robertson. Reference your 607. I think it would not be desirable to bring up title to bases question at Philippines-US Council meeting. It would be helpful if Secretary in private conversation with Magsaysay could bring up matter and emphasize desirability of pushing things to a settlement. I get feeling that latter tends to push unpleasant things under the rug where they will be out of sight.” (Telegram 505; 711.56396/8–1854)
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