Foreign Relations of the United States, 1947, The Near East and Africa, Volume V

841.2368/8–247: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Greece

secret
us urgent

Washington, August 2, 1947—4 p. m.

1213. Reference British statement of intention to withdraw troops from Greece immediately,¹ we would like to have your views as to whether present small British force in Greece in fact serves substantially useful purpose. Do you consider it is factor in supporting Greek morale or in deterring Communists and northern countries from more drastic action?

We would also like to know whether Greek Government desires retention British troops and whether it has been consulted regarding immediate withdrawal.

Marshall

1. The Department had informed Ambassador MacVeagh and Governor Griswold in telegram 1179, July 30, of the British decision to remove the remaining British troopts from Greece (841.2368/7–3047).