BRITAIN AND E.D.C.

Press, Volume XC, Issue 27307, 25 March 1954, Page 11

BRITAIN AND E.D.C.

Press Reports Of Assurances

(N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) (Rec. 8 p.m.) LONDON, March 24. Diplomatic correspondents in both Paris and London say that final British proposals for closer military association between Britain and the European Defence Community have already been given to the six countries which are to-compose the community. There is no confirmation of this in London, but reports from Paris suggest that Britain has told France she is willing to permit a certain integration of her land and air forces with E.D.C. forces and that, under certain circumstances, she will agree to some British troops and Air Force units being placed under the command of E.D.C. commanders. Similarly. E.D.C. forces might come under British command. Britain, while maintaining her right as a non-member of E.D.C. to withdraw her forces, would only do so after consultation with the E.D.C. Powers. The diplomatic correspondent of the “Yorkshire Post” says that’ whether the reported latest offer by Britain will persuade France to go ahead with the ratification of the plan remains to be seen. Guarantees Sought “It is known that France had been seeking guarantees for a limited number of British troops to be stationed in Europe for a specific period. “There is concern over the lack of positive signs as to when France will go ahead with ratification. It was hoped that a start, at least, would be made before Easter. Now there are increasing doubts about this.” The Paris correspondent of the “Daily Telegraph” says great secrecy is being maintained about the proposals, but it is known that Britain will not undertake .to keep troops on the Continent for 50 years—a pledge for which France had asked.

“Clearly it is intended to keep the details of the British proposals secret until the eve of the ratification debate in the French Assembly. The aim is to ensure that they have maximum impact.

“The Prime Minister. Mr Laniel, has stated that the debate cannot take place until, first, the negotiations for additional protocols have been completed, and, second, British and American assurances have been obtained, and*, third, there is - French and German agreement on the future of the Saar.” “Leakage” of News The diplomatic correspondent of the “Manchester Guardian,” commenting on the Paris “leakage” of the proposals, says the House of Commons will have to be informed on such an important matter before anything is revealed in London.

“Without knowing the precise manner in which the British Government will be prepared to turn over part of its forces to E.D.C., it is difficult to assess the exact practical implications of such a step. Psychologically, it will no doubt have considerable effect in France.

“On the assumption that the forces could be withdrawn after consultation with E.D.C., such a new commitment would involve Britain only slightly.”