740.0011 P. W./7–1545: Telegram
No. 244
The Ambassador in the United
Kingdom (Winant) to the Acting Secretary of State
1
us urgent
7146. We were called to FonOff this afternoon by Harvey who was considerably disturbed about Department’s proposed announcement July 17 re Italy and World Security Organization. (Re Department’s 5773, July 142 and Embassy’s 7144, July 153). British Embassy Washington is being instructed to approach Department and request announcement be postponed until the question of future status of Italy can be discussed at Big Three meeting.
Harvey felt question of admittance of Italy to World Security Organization was tied up with peace treaty and said that British delegation to Berlin conference was thoroughly briefed on this subject and had hoped to discuss it there after which a three power declaration regarding future of Italy could be made. FonOff, according to Harvey, had tried to keep in step with Department on all matters affecting Italy but it felt in this case such short notice had been given that it would be impossible. Harvey pointed out that Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary both in Berlin and with best will in world FonOff unable to make decision on this matter in time available. Question is being referred to Mr Eden with request he discuss matter with Mr Byrnes and in meantime Harvey strongly urged that announcement be postponed.
- The gist of this message was included in telegram No. 35 of July 16 from Grew to Byrnes (file No. 800.00 Summaries/7-1645). See also vol. ii, document No. 723.↩
- Document No. 242 ↩
- Document No. 243 ↩