868.00/9–2545: Telegram
The Ambassador in Greece (MacVeagh) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 26—3:04 p.m.]
1077. Mytel 1076, September 25.24 Before giving interview to press yesterday Regent received British colleague,25 myself and French [Page 162] Chargé in order named and made to each a plea for support in securing collaboration among chief political leaders in forthcoming elections (mytel 992, September 926). In outlining his ideas to me talked of uniting as many parties as possible in concerted effort secure thoroughly national democratic parliament, obviating Communist menace as first requirement present situation. Proposed persuading party leaders agree on single national ticket. Admitted differences along party lines certain declare themselves promptly in any chamber so formed, also that resulting government necessarily only coalition and probably impermanent, but emphasized all other problems even that of regime now secondary in comparison with that of eliminating threat to democracy itself. Stated intends throw full weight his influence behind this proposal and while realizes partisan proclivities of political leaders may be difficult overcome, feels can win if Allies back him sufficiently.
I told Regent have no instructions regarding support desired but thanked him for exposition and expressed my understanding. French colleague also told him no instructions and is wiring Paris. This morning I saw British colleague and he informed me that he has been personally instructed by Mr. Bevin to support Regent in urging politicians work together, but interprets this in general terms and feels can only urge collaboration to extent outlined in tripartite London statement. Said Regent told him he hoped he would use his influence on leaders of all parties except EAM (Greek Liberation Front) naming specifically John Thmotokis (Royalist), Kaphanaaris (Progressive), Papandreou (Socialist Democratic) and Sophoulis (Liberal).
Sent Dept as No. 1077; repeated London as 103.