Foreign Relations of the United States, 1951, European Security and the German Question, Volume III, Part 1

740.5/7–1451: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the United States Deputy Representative on the North Atlantic Council, at London (Spofford)¹

top secret priority

Washington, July 14, 1951—2 p. m.

Todep 20. Depcirtel 44, Jul 12.² Dept informally but reliably told JCS now desire Fechteler appt soonest and particularly wish final action while Sherman abroad.

Desire ur views best means proceed in view long delay, complications and Brit feelings in matter. You shld not discuss subj outside US circles until further instructed.³

Acheson

1. Message drafted by Knight, cleared in substance with Perkins.
2. Not printed. Admiral Sherman was in Madrid between July 15 and July 17 for talks with Generalissimo Franco concerning possible U.S. base rights in Spain. For further documentation, see volume iv .
3. On July 17 Acting Secretary of Defense Lovett formally requested of Secretary of State Acheson “that appropriate action be taken in the Council Deputies to proceed with Admiral Fechteler’s appointment …” (740.5/7–1751). That same day, the Secretary of State cabled Spofford in London stating that he should “discuss procedure with Br in view determining course of action mutually satisfactory. Subsequently you may proceed in Deps at your discretion, consulting Dept only if you anticipate complications.” (Todep 25, July 17, 740.5/7–1751)