The Pentagon Papers
Gravel Edition
Volume 1
Document 28, Telegram from Secretary of State Dulles to Dillon and Aldrich on
Conversations with the British, 4 April 1954, p 461.
Apr. 4, 1954
SENT TO:
Amembassy LONDON NIACT 5177
RPTD INFO Amembassy PARIS 3478
EYES ONLY ALDRICH AND DILLON
Secretary saw Makins late April 2 and discussed Indochina problem along same
general lines his talk April 3 with Bonnet (see Department's 5090 to London
rptd Paris 3418 and DEPTEL 3476 to Paris, 5175 to London). Makins indicated
our thinking considerably more advanced than British which had apparently not
yet gone beyond examination of possible political solutions Indochina under
existing conditions.
Partition seemed to London least undesirable settlement according Makins but it was clear UK had not yet developed thoughts for dealing positively and constructively with situation which well may confront us if French determined to sell out.
Secretary emphasized to Makins essentiality of UK and US [Word missing] and
at Geneva maintaining solid front to stiffen French attitude. Makins agreed
latter point and promised report entire talk fully and urgently. He suggested
desirability British military representative here talking promptly to our Chiefs
which Secretary said had best wait till later next week.
DULLES
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