50. Letter From the Ambassador to the United Kingdom (Bruce) to the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Atlantic Affairs (Schaetzel)0
Dear Bob: It seemed better to write than telegraph you. I had a long talk with Ted Heath today. He was thoroughly frank and forthcoming.
It was obvious that, although not defeatist, he is worried over the slow, and, in some respects, unsatisfactory progress of Common Market negotiations. The French, especially Wormser, remain obstructive.
- 1.
- The difficulties over agriculture are great; what has been demanded of Britain in that field cannot possibly be reconciled with UK domestic political pressures.
- 2.
- No acceptable arrangement to take care of New Zealand’s particular needs has been suggested by the French, nor have they indicated a willingness to be accommodating.
- 3.
- India and Pakistan are somewhat unreasonable in their demands, but the deal, that may be somewhat improved, worked out for them is reasonable.
- 4.
- He thinks any serious consideration of world-wide commodity agreements should be postponed until after UK has been admitted to Rome Treaty organization.
- 5.
- Re Trade Expansion Act, he favors US intention of conducting bilateral soundings, and finds March or April 1963 suitable times.
- 6.
- Euratom membership does not present insuperable problem, but must be tactfully negotiated.
- 7.
- UK will not neglect interests of EFTA friends, but little serious on this subject can be negotiated until after UK’s own position has been clarified.
- 8.
- He hopes treaty might be signed in March or April, with enabling legislation passed later in year after much debate. Does not, however, believe general election will be precipitated on issue.
- 9.
- He thinks US Government should continue to refrain from intervention in situation. He suggested, however, if I could use any personal influence discreetly with Hallstein and Marjolin I do so, and also see Monnet to tell him outlook far from rosy.
- 10.
- I do not wish to intrude on duties or in territory our representative in Brussels. If, however, you wish me to see Hallstein, once a great friend, I shall do so, as well as talk informally with Marjolin and Monnet [Page 123] separately. I do not believe I should see Marjolin without prior consent Monnet.
In summary, Heath is not certain the cat can be put back in the bag. The continued insistence of French on agricultural provisions, including financial arrangements, gravely troubles him. Moreover, if acceded to, British agricultural constituencies would largely desert Conservatives.
Smallest practicable distribution should be given to these comments.
Best regards.
Sincerely yours,
P.S. I have just had word from Ted that Marjolin, commencing at once, will be away from Brussels a month, campaigning for election to the French Parliament.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 375.800/11–162. Confidential.↩