Assembly 153.

SPAIN

1. In accordance with Prime Minister's instructions (E-46 of 2nd
October) we have tried to secure variation in last year's Assembly
Resolution so that Spain would not be barred from Specialised
Agencies where her participation would be in the interests of
other Members. Matter was discussed with Representatives of all
British Commonwealth countries, United States of America, Belgium,
France and some Latin American States. Canada was willing to join
us in sponsoring a joint resolution if sufficient support could be
obtained. Most Latin American States and all the Soviet Group
strongly opposed any relaxation of last year's resolution in any
respect. Some of the European States felt that for internal
political reasons they could not support us at this stage. The
United Kingdom, United States of America, India and others agreed
with our criticism of the provision relating to Specialised
Agencies, but considered that it would be unwise to raise the
subject at present because it would result in violent debate in
which the supporting Governments would be criticised as friendly
to Franco and therefore they were unwilling to support a
Resolution on Specialised Agencies. If the motion had been moved,
we would have secured very few votes. Canadians should be more
favourable next year for an attempt to change the position.

2. Preceding cable contains text of Resolution adopted by
Committee today. In agreement with Canada and United States of
America we voted for preamble and last paragraph but against
clause reaffirming last year's decision [1], which was carried by
30 votes to 14 with 11 abstentions, minority including Australia,
Brazil, Canada, Netherlands, Pakistan and United States of
America. We abstained on motion as a whole which was carried by 30
to 6, with 19 abstentions. United Kingdom voted for the
Resolution, stating that it did so only because it considered the
last paragraph watered down the reaffirmation. Vote against
reaffirmation was in accordance with instructions on Specialised
Agencies.