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Re Indochina

Dixon (UK) asked me this morning our understanding of the present status of Thai appeal in SC. I told him I understood Smith had been instructed to urge on Eden and Bidault importance we attach to very early meeting. I also indicated our understanding Thais strong feeling scope should not be too strictly limited. Dixon said his instructions remained (A) timing should be dependent entirely on developments at Geneva; (B) scope should be limited to Thailand. He said if Russians veto resolution in SC limiting the scope to Thailand, consideration could then be given to broadening scope in GA resolution. We pointed out broadening the scope in GA after Russian veto of limited scope resolution in SC would be likely to alienate votes; it was our impression there is more give in UK position on scope than indicated by Dixon but that there is probably very little give on the question of timing.

Lucet (France), who was present, indicated to us in an aside that he personally thought a reference to "the general area of Thailand" was too broad and that perhaps language could be worked out which permitted POC group to go into "neighboring" states at the request of those states.

Hoppenot is in hospital and will be out of circulation for at least week or two. We agreed to get in touch this evening or tomorrow morning if any of us have any word from Geneva.

Khoman (Thailand) came in this afternoon for general discussion. He knew about Sarasin's talk with Key. He very strongly emphasized Thai Government's negative attitude towards limiting scope to Thailand. He also recorded strongest opposition to have Czechoslovakia or any other satellite as member of POC group. He asked if we thought it would be useful for him to talk with other delegations in order to build up support for GA action in event of Soviet veto in SC. We advised him it would be desirable to begin laying strong foundations now (A) in favor of convening GA promptly, and (B) in support of desirable objective when GA convenes. He would like to know US thinking at present on resumed GA or special session. He would Rh Rh