NND Project Number: NND 63316. By: NWD Date: 2011
Page 2 of telegram to Amconsul GENEVA TEDUL
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Numbered paragraph 4. While we would agree substitution words Quote after re-establishment peace Unquote for Quote end of hostilities Unquote we feel our phrasing for rest sentence definitely preferable to that proposed by Bidault. His text carries overtone France retaining right decide timing first and then getting Vietnamese Government to agree after, which precisely type implication we consider it necessary avoid if independence of Viet Nam to be crystal clear.
Numbered paragraph 5. We feel Bidault's proposed text, for paragraph 2 of Deptel 4286, repeated Geneva TEDUL 133, conflicts with assurances sought by our text. While Bidault's language might be helpful for EDC debate it provides loopholes for abusive interpretation justifying later claims right withdrawal on one or other of counts listed. When occasion offers suggest you point out to Bidault that we could not (repeat not) commit forces and US prestige in situation when there would be any question concerning premature French withdrawal their forces.
Numbered paragraph 6. After full agreement reached on all conditions and French Government has reached decision it wishes request US intervention, US must have opportunity at that time make its own decision whether prevailing circumstances warrant implementation of formal steps leading to US military participation. We cannot grant French an indefinite option on us without regard to intervening deterioration. Only after these decisions taken would we expect Laniel submit agreement and request for internationalization to Parliament for endorsement and ratification; also he must not (repeat not) prejudice our liberty of decision by approaching Parliament in such way that we would appear morally committed to intervene prior to our decision.
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