Foreign Relations of the United States, 1947, Council of Foreign Ministers; Germany and Austria, Volume II

740.00119 EW/9–1547: Telegram

The United States Delegate to the Inter-Allied Reparation Agency (Dorr) to the Secretary of State

top secret

Brussels, September 15, 1947—11 a.m.

1407. OE from Dorr. ReDeptel 1270, September 11.²¹

1. In view paragraph five feel it extremely difficult make any statement whatever to IARA re US policy which might not in certain even [events?] afford later justification for charges of bad faith. Accordingly request detailed instructions concerning position to be taken by US.

2. Re paragraph five hope that, if Dept seriously considering stopping deliveries to any non-occupying power, opportunity will be afforded me to present personally views as to possible effects on work here. Would such suspension apply all reparation deliveries including neutral assests [assets], or only industrial equipment? Is there any indication British French would agree? If not, presume restriction would apply solely to relatively small number plants which might be delivered from US zones, since British French have already shown willingness make unilateral removals from their zones when quadripartite action blocked. Strongly inclined to feel if any restriction attempted position US Delegation IARA would become untenable in view clear violation Paris Act.

3. Pending advice from Dept regarding extent to which British support our attitude, have not felt it possible to discuss subject even informally with British delegate.²² British alternate delegate going Berlin today probably for consultation this matter.

[

Dorr

]

21. Same as telegram 3946 to London, supra.

22. Telegram 1288, September 15, to Brussels, for Dorr, not printed, replied in part as follows:

    “For your info this position has not yet been discussed with UK. Until further informed you should endeavor avoid responding questions this subject.” (740.00119 EW/9–847)