852.00/7-1845: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom to the Acting Secretary of State
London, July 18, 1945 — 5 p.m.
Secret
7241
Ambassador Mallet, proceeding Madrid Monday, expressed himself this morning as in much doubt how to handle Franco. Franco’s latest moves considered by FonOff unsatisfactory, unencouraging and it seems to be feared Franco by holding on will play Spain into Soviet hands. Garran of FonOff expects interesting developments Spanish scene in view of Soviet interest in Tangier coupled with renewed radio campaign against Franco which now features, Garran said, instructions for sabotage.
Sent Dept as 7241; repeated Madrid 189.
WINANT
881.00/7-1845: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom to the Acting Secretary of State
London, July 18, 1945 — 5 p.m.
Secret
7242
The British do not intend to raise Tangier question at big three meeting except in so far as determining whether Russia will participate is concerned, according to Harvey and Garran of FonOff. Embassy was told today that while Russian request presumably will be granted British hope to use their concurrence as bargaining point with Russia. It was stated British are dissatisfied with tardy and sometimes unsatisfactory Soviet action on British requests. Garran said Spanish Under Secretary Castillo has told Bowker if Russians brought in Spain will revert to status quo ante 1923. FonOff evidently believes Soviet Govt out to embarrass Franco to fullest and has noted anti-Franco Soviet broadcasts recently stepped up considerably.
Sent Dept as 7242; repeated Paris 461; Madrid 190; Tangier 44; Moscow 255.
WINANT