501.BC/8–1048: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom
3163. Dept feels it desirable that SC seat from which Belgium retires this year should continue to be occupied by state from Western or Northern Europe. In considering possible candidates Dept wishes to take into account views of other states.
Dept considers Norway best qualified candidate this area with Denmark as less satisfactory alternative. Dept understands Netherlands not a candidate. Our conversations NY reveal French apparently committed support Luxembourg first ballot. Dept doubts whether Luxembourg can be considered qualified for SC in view Article 23 Charter requirement of primary emphasis upon “contribution of Members of the UN to the maintenance of international peace and security.” . . . . Our informal interpretation this phrase suggests importance of state’s ability to make material contribution to maintenance international security. Moreover, if Luxembourg considered eligible, unfortunate precedent may be created as regards small states other areas. Dept would not favor Sweden at this time because of its reluctance to take any position on certain important political issues arising out of East-West differences which would be likely to prevent its playing constructive role SC.
Please discuss substance above FonOff, indicating Dept presently disposed support Norway, if candidate. You may point out that if this seat is not to be won by candidate from another area early agreement on preferred European candidate is essential, so that necessary diplomatic preparations may be undertaken. Preliminary discussions with British and French Delegations UN disclose lack of instructions or views this matter, except for French commitment Luxembourg.1
- Repeated to the Embassy in France as telegram 3050, August 10.
In telegram 3700, August 16, the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Douglas) responded: “British official position in regard to successor for Belgium on SC not yet determined. (Deptel 3163 August 10.) Mason head of UN Department indicated informally that British might well come to same conclusion as US that Norway would be first choice. He also stated Jebb [H.M. Gladwyn Jebb, Superintending Under (Secretary for the United Nations Political Department, British Foreign Office] during forthcoming visit to Washington for discussion on matters on GA agenda would probably take up whole question of slates.” (501.BC/8–1648)
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