330. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom0
976. Southern Rhodesia. Salisbury’s 63 and 64 (rptd info London 19 and 20; USUN 7 and 8).1Dept seriously concerned at prospect in 17th UNGA of extremely anti-British debate on Southern Rhodesia and passage highly critical resolution.
Heated debate and undesirable resolution could in any case be expected in absence indications UK prepared take some steps carry out June resolution calling for new constitutional endeavors. However, criticism of UK in debate and in probable resolution will, Dept believes, be intensified as result new and more stringent security measures against Africans which SR Govt intends to enact and increased possibility widespread violence, as reported reftels and indicated by recent disturbances and ZAPU threats.
Emb requested inform FonOff at appropriately high level and, in your discretion, ColOff above appraisal and inquire whether, subsequent to talks with Cleveland and Williams, UKG has given further thought to measures it might take vis-à-vis SR to head off extreme criticism and drastic res in 17th UNGA. FYI. Emb will recall both Williams and Cleveland came away from London with impression UK possesses more political and legal authority re SR, with considerable room for maneuver, than British have been willing to admit to us or UN. End FYI.
Emb should point out that in absence UK action US would find it difficult defend UK’s position at 17th UNGA since we opposed inscription SR item in June resumed session largely on grounds that postponing discussion until 17th session would give UK time to exert its influence on SR situation.