independent or joining up with either Germany or France. There is also an advan¬ 
tage to be gained by admitting the Saar to the Council and this preventing the 
regular encroachments which the French are making from leading to its complete 
incorporation into France. These arguments should assist in securing German 
agreement. 
5. Though this is not mentioned specifically in any Assembly resolution or re¬ 
commendation, the Assembly thought that if the Committee of Ministers admitted 
Germany as an associate member this year it would be desirable to have a special 
session of the Assembly in the Spring of next year so that Germany should be able 
to take a definite part at an early date. On general grounds I am opposed to a 
special session in the Spring and I hope that a declaration by the Committee of 
Ministers now as suggested would help us avoid it. 
6. As this matter affects all three powers controlling the German Federal Republic, 
i do not wish to take this line without the knowledge of the State Department. 
Please therefore inform them urgently of the line 1 propose to take and let me know 
by Tuesday next whether they have any observations. 
363