Page:Ford, Kissinger - August 15, 1974(Gerald Ford Library)(1552750).pdf/2



Shouldn't we get it out of the way?

The problem is getting a good statement. The thrust should now be different. You would be comfortable with next Thursday?

It is up to you.

On the Saudi military -- I don't think you should leave any department that leverage. Just have Brent get the availability. You don't have to do anything now. Right now it just creates problems. Now it creates the impression of bad faith. It is not illegal but it would look like sharp practice. We can wait for the Saudi team. We can just give Egypt delivery times at my levels.

I think it is better to hold it all informally to avoid any possibility of a charge of sharp practice. If this is okay, we will do it this way and have Schlesinger and Clements over when the times comes.

Does that break faith with Fahmy?

He just needs to know when we can deliver. The Saudis probably won't be here until early October. Then you get Defense in and tell them. It is one thing to sell something which then they wish to transfer; it is another to sell with the intent to transfer.