771A.00/5–2054: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Dillon) to the Department of State1
4470. Cabinet this afternoon named Francis Lacoste as new Resident General in Morocco. At same time, it confirmed General Guillaume in his functions as Inspector General of French Forces in North Africa.
According press, Naegelen today informed Laniel that he could not accept post of Resident General offered him on Tuesday, justifying his refusal on uncertainty of being supported in his mission by the majority and even by Ministers in Government.
Although General Koenig had been seriously considered for post, desire to name civilian rather than military figure, combined with Laniel displeasure over DeGaullist support in vote of confidence test last week, believed to have given Naegelen the edge. With either of two as Resident General, designation of Lacoste as Minister Delegate had been considered virtually foregone conclusion. Their elimination as candidates pushed Lacoste to fore.
[Page 641]Basdevant, Foreign Office, tells us that present plan is for General Guillaume to return to Morocco early next week and to remain there for about two weeks making his farewells, etc. Lacoste would arrive shortly after his departure, armed with new instructions which would have been approved by government. Basdevant stated it was premature to comment on probable nature of instructions but emphasized that appointment of Lacoste reflected French Government’s desire pursue liberal policy in Morocco.
- This telegram was repeated to Tangier, Rabat, Geneva, and Casablanca.↩