891.00/1938: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant)
5924. In telegram dated November 20 Tehran reports Iranian action vesting control of currency in existing Iranian Note Reserve Control Committee. British Minister reported satisfied with this action and proceeding at once with wheat declaration.
Dreyfus feels this has relieved political situation but fears another crisis if British authorities in Iran carry out expressed intention of arresting four prominent Iranians, including a deputy and two generals, on grounds of implication in plot mentioned Department’s 5604 November 7. Dreyfus has pointed out to the British Minister effect such arrests would have unless evidence of guilt is conclusive but Bullard appears determined to proceed on grounds of security.
Please reiterate to Foreign Office views expressed our 5604. You may say this Government is no less anxious than British to preserve security of Allied position in Iran, but that we are most anxious to avoid another crisis, especially since the wheat–currency difficulties are still in process of settlement. If action against alleged conspirators is considered absolutely necessary, we hope British authorities Tehran will be instructed to proceed with all possible observance of Iranian laws and procedures. It would seem preferable to allow Iranian authorities themselves to make arrests and conduct proceedings.