DEPARTMENT OF STATE THE SECRETARY
June 9, 1950
Mr. Secretary:
I have discussed with Mr. Webb, Mr. Perkins and Mr. Achilles the question of the relationship between the NAT Deputy and the position of Ambassador to the Court of St. James.
The Department has done nothing specific as far as working out this arrangement. However, it is the opinion of Mr. Perkins and Mr. Webb that the lines or organization between the two could be defined so that neither interfered in the other's bailiwick. They believe that this is a matter which could be worked out without any real difficulty.
Mr. Perkins points to the office of special representative in Paris as an example of how the relationship could be developed. In many respects Mr. Harriman's position in relation to Mr. Bruce would be comparable to the Deputy's position with Ambassador Douglas.
It should be understood by the Deputy that the diplomatic channel is to be maintained and that any contacts with the Foreign Offices of various countries would be handled through our chief of mission at each post. Mr. Douglas mentions this point in his letter, which is attached, but reassurance along this line might prevent misunderstanding.
Mr. Webb has some hesitation about telling Mr. Douglas that the Ambassador would be the next choice but leaves this to your discretion.
Mr. Perkins mentioned that you had discussed in some of your meetings the possibility of having Mr. Douglas designated as Deputy to the Deputy or as alternate to the Deputy. He recommends that you make no mention of this at present.
LDB