501.BC/8–1948: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Belgium
1260. For your further background urtel 1604 Aug 19 in personal discussion we hope you can have with Bech and possibly further talks Bel FonOff, Dept has following comments re de Gruben’s observations. Normally Neth might well be considered best qualified candidate. Under present circumstances, however, Dept questions whether it would really be to her best interests to stand, and if she stood if she could be elected. Hence Dept believes any suggestions possibility Neth candidacy should be discreetly discouraged.
Dept surprised de Gruben’s comment re possibility area giving up seat. Dept feels under present circumstances would not be desirable for area and not in U.S. interests. We had thought all Western and Northern European states shared this opinion. Even staff member Swedish Del New York spoke strongly on it to US Del.
If possible obtain more official statement Bel attitude prior Spaak’s return would be most helpful to Dept.