We have been considering decisions taken by Council of Foreign Ministers concerning peace treaties with Germany as communicated in Dominions Office telegrams D. 1144, 1145, 1146 and 1147 of December 9th and D. 1164, 1165, and 1166 of December 13th.† These telegrams contained, amongst other things, statement of methods by which views of other countries which participated in war against Germany should be heard.

2. These arrangements give us even less opportunity to participate in the early stages of the German settlement than we had in the case of Italy. It seems to us, however, that some empirical and constructive approach to the question would be preferable to a mere refusal, on principle, to present our views to the Special Deputies in London. We have decided, therefore, to seek some form of association in preparation of treaties more in keeping with Canada's contribution to the war.

3. We would hope, therefore, that the terms of reference to the Special Deputies might be interpreted with some flexibility so that the Special Deputies will be able not only to hear our views but to discuss the settlement with us.

4. We think also that it would be useful if the Special Deputies would discuss with us, and representatives of other countries to be heard, not only the settlement with Germany but also the questions of procedure included in their terms of reference as shown in telegram D. 1165 of December 13th. In this way it might be possible to iron out in private at the official level some of the procedural difficulties that will otherwise arise in public at a later stage.

S. We would suggest, further, the association on a functional basis of representatives of smaller States in the actual drafting of the treaties. In this way Canada might be enabled to discuss with the Foreign Ministers at an early stage clauses of the treaty with Germany which are of particular interest to us such as the economic clauses or the clauses on central government. On the other hand we should not particularly desire an opportunity to be associated in the drafting of clauses on such questions as the Eastern boundaries of Germany.

6. I would be grateful if you would present these views to the United States Government at your earliest convenience with the request that they consider whether or not Canada might be associated with the work of the Special Deputies along the lines suggested. In discussing question with United States authorities you may add, if you think it expedient to do so, that while we have no objection in principle to appearing before Special Deputies in London, we shall not be prepared to do so if we are not given the opportunity to join with them in the discussion of the problems involved. In other words, we shall not be prepared merely to appear, to present our views, and to withdraw.

7. The Canadian High Commissioner in London is being requested to make similar representations to the United Kingdom Government.