406. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom1
1925. For Ambassadors from Dillon. USUN for Merchant and Parsons. [2½ lines of source text not declassified] of meeting 22 September between Prime Minister Sarit, General Phoumi and Prince Boun Oum. With reference this report following telegram being sent Ambassador Bangkok for action, repeated for your info:
“[less than 1 line of source text not declassified] report in question presents us with situation of utmost gravity. If Phoumi follows a course of action as therein outlined much of that which we have been endeavoring to achieve over the years in Laos and more particularly in the past few weeks will be effectively sabotaged.
Brown’s démarche to the King is viewed here as encouraging. If Phoumi and others concerned will cooperate in King’s efforts to bring about reconciliation between Lao patriots we may have something constructive to work with. If Phoumi snubs this royal gesture and engages in a program of secession and open revolt world opinion will be turned against him.
Phoumi’s exhibited recalcitrance will undoubtedly encourage our enemies in the UN to introduce the matter there. If this takes place in spite of everything that we can do to thwart it the accusing finger will undoubtedly be pointed at Thailand and Marshal Sarit personally. If Laos becomes an issue in the UN on these terms there is little doubt that it will split SEATO down the middle. Current misgivings of the British, French and even Australians and New Zealanders of Phoumi’s intentions may very well line up with those who would condemn him.
[Page 864]In view of the gravity of this situation would urge you to approach Sarit immediately bringing home to him the adverse effects which would ensure [ensue] from Phoumi’s rash action not only to our purposes in Laos but almost of more importance the serious consequences to Thailand.”
Foregoing text also being sent Ambassador Saigon with instruction transmit essence immediately to Diem as he deems appropriate.
[1 paragraph (1½ lines of source text) not declassified]
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 751J.00/9–2360. Top Secret; Niact; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Steeves and cleared with Cumming and with Dillon in substance. Repeated niact to Paris, Canberra, Wellington, and USUN.↩