Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1945, Europe, Volume IV

740.0011 EW/4–745: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France (Caffery)

Washington, April 26, 1945—8 p.m.

1700. Your 1719, April 7. British Embassy advises that Steel⁹ has been instructed to impress on SHAEF¹⁰ the importance which the British Government attaches to the political aspect of the employment of French troops in Italian territory. While feeling that in view of Bidault’s assurances the Italians are unduly apprehensive, the British Government welcomes SACMED’s¹¹ proposal (Caserta’s 60, April 2¹²) to request SCAEF¹³ to withdraw French troops as soon as possible after the Germans cease fighting or French troops are no longer needed. It adds that undoubtedly SCAEF will take special care that French troops not be in a position to engage in independent activities.

Please make similar representation to SHAEF on behalf of this Government through your liaison.

Grew

9. Christopher Eden Steel, British Political Officer, Supreme Headquarters, Allied Expeditionary Force.
10. Supreme Headquarters, Allied Expeditionary Force.
11. Supreme Allied Commander, Mediterranean.
12. Not printed.
13. Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force.