501.BB Korea/2–2048: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Douglas) to the Secretary of State
647. 1. We found opportunity last night discuss Korean situation informally with Foreign Office officials handling problem. Foreign Office view is Soviets have organized northern zone whereby [whereas?] southern zone bordering on chaos. Moreover, Foreign Office has strong impression US will soon withdraw forces South Korea. Having drawn foregoing conclusions, it clear UK has “written off” Korea as lost to Soviets.
2. Re UN proceedings, Foreign Office aware Canadian and Australian attitude. Foreign Office still adheres view set forth Embtel 540, February 12, namely UK unable determine its position IC meeting until it has considered Korean Commission report. Foreign Office has not yet had time study Menon’s report, but we inclined to belief Foreign Office not likely support US position pending further efforts on part IC bring north and south Koreans together. Meantime Foreign Office hopes week end adjournment IC will afford opportunity for delegates canvass situation privately in endeavor reach satisfactory solution, for Foreign Office feels open division in IC can only benefit Soviets.
Repeated Moscow 25.