Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, China and Japan, Volume XIV, Part 2

694.001/2–1452: Telegram

No. 511
The Acting Secretary of State to the United States Political Adviser to SCAP (Sebald)¹

secret
priority

Washington, February 14, 1952—6:28 p.m.

Topad 2226. Eyes only Rusk from Dulles. Probably Jap peace treaty will not come before Senate before end next week and more likely week beginning Feb. 25. No important business considered this week account absences connected Lincoln’s birthday speech-making. Hawaii–Alaska Statehood bills next order of business which may involve protracted debate, Jap peace treaty probably next. Despite President’s policy to push ratification as rapidly as possible, irrespective status Adminis. Agreement, relying on his power to withhold deposit instrument of ratification, members Def Dept have conveyed contrary wish to enough Senators so that it wld be difficult to get Senate take up Treaty ratification until Adminis. Agreement concluded. It seems likely there may be considerable difficulty with negot Jap–Chi treaty. Accordingly hope Adminis. Agreement may be concluded by latter part of next week as otherwise there might be Senate postponement this account with possible other postponements as new controversial matters come upon scene such as difficult Formosa negots.

Webb

1. Drafted and approved for transmission by Dulles; cleared with Allison in FE.