88. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom1
4949. Dept and British Emb exchanged views Saturday on talks with Soviets. Texts being pouched.2
Brit paper proposes talks designed to “bring results even of limited character” rather than propaganda exercise. Should be held immediately after ratification Paris Agreements because “we as close to being able to talk on terms of equality with Soviet leaders as likely in foreseeable future”.
[Page 136]Talks would cover (a) Austria, Germany and European security (b) study of ways and means of dealing with all other issues outstanding between East-West.
British suggested following arrangements:
- (a)
- US, French, UK officials to meet in London about April 14 to reach preliminary agreement.
- (b)
- Paris meeting week later would include West German representatives for discussions on Germany. Consultation with permanent NAC representatives on European security. NATO representatives to be kept generally informed about Germany.
- (c)
- Consultation in Vienna between our Ambassadors and Austrian Government.
- (d)
- Meeting of US, UK, French and German Foreign Secretaries first week of May to decide on approach to Soviet Government.
- (e)
- Thereafter or concurrently NATO Foreign Ministers meeting coinciding with Paris Agreements entry into force.
US reply expressed general agreement but made two points on arrangements: (1) Suggested no date should be set for official level talks prior deposit of Paris Agreements ratification. (2) Newly sovereign Germany cannot be entirely excluded from initial phases and therefore meetings suggested in points (a) and (b) of British paper should be consolidated. Simultaneously US, UK and French talks could be held on subjects not directly concerning Germany.
Our paper urged British not present theirs to French unless amended in accordance US suggestions.
Brit Emb has just informed us FonOff agrees to our suggested changes. Brit Emb Paris instructed deliver to Quai d’Orsay today. Department not yet in possession new text but understands it now calls for “diplomatic consultation” to be followed by meeting of officials in London or Paris in which German representatives would take part. Understand timing now proposed as “as soon as possible in April”.