741.92/12–1545: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Political Adviser in Siam (Yost)
78. 1. Brit have agreed combining Clauses C 1 and C 2 as requested.
2. Urtel 68, Dec 15. Please express appreciation to Seni and Pradit for courtesy in agreeing to delay signing during Brit-US discussions. With these concessions on amount rice levy and security clauses Brit-American discussion concluded on terms Agreement63 (though discussion on distribution levy may continue). US therefore withdraws recommendation for delay in signing Agreement. This of course is not to be construed as approval of Agreement.
3. You are authorized to discuss fully with Seni and Pradit American position and actions throughout military and civilian negotiations. Please make clear:
- (a)
- The assurances which Brit have given us regarding Annex old 11 and 14 on basis of which US acquiescing in military provisions. Be sure they understand that military provisions are generally in line with agreements made even with Allied countries except troop pay which Brit has always required be met by enemy or ex-enemy countries, even co-belligerents.
- (b)
- Principles proposed tripartite agreement which we consider most effective procedure expediting rice exports and protecting Siamese interests.
- (c)
- Brit-American understanding as to Claims Commission and consultation on Siamese ability to pay.
- (d)
- That although we disapprove rice levy in principle we feel terms best obtainable.
- (e)
- In view Anglo-American relationships, US although ready since Oct 2 reluctant to resume diplomatic relations with technical enemy of Brit Ally in face of specific requests to defer action. Such deferment was used, however, to increase pressure for modifying Agreement.
4. Purpose of disclosing American position and actions is not only to protect US position but also to strengthen Siamese Govt in planning to meet internal criticisms and opposition to Agreement. You are authorized as conditions and circumstances appear to warrant to make such public statements as, in your discretion, seem desirable to emphasize American position and assistance taking care, however, not to permit any implication that US is supporting Agreement and also not to emphasize Brit-American disagreements or difficulties and requesting Siamese similarly to avoid such implication or emphasis. It is hoped you will be consulted on any statements by Siamese Govt or officials referring to US so that while fully protecting American position the net effect will be to restore Brit-American-Siamese harmony as rapidly as possible and so help rapid implementing and discharge of Agreement obligations and welfare of Siam.
5. Brit informed substance this telegram.
- For Department statement of December 22 regarding the conclusion of British-American conversations on the proposed British-Siamese agreement, see Department of State Bulletin, December 23, 1945, p. 1021.↩