You will remember that, when it was decided to exchange formal diplomatic representation with Italy, the Italian authorities requested that the missions should be Legations for the time being rather than Embassies. In view of the events of the immediate past, the Italians wished to move slowly in their return to normal diplomatic relations. Although we should have preferred an exchange of Embassies, we understood the Italian reasons and readily agreed to exchange Legations.

2. In a recent, personal letter, Mr. Désy has advised me that the Italian authorities (including the President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister) feel that the time is now ripe to elevate the rank of the diplomatic missions and are somewhat anxious that a request to this effect should be received from Canada.

3. Mr. Désy was told that the Italians expect the initiative to come from us because we are the victors of the war. I assume this means that the Italians do not wish to appear either presumptuous or suppliant.

4. Mr. Désy suspects that the Italian Government would welcome this change before it engages in the electoral campaign, as it would enhance governmental prestige and be considered to express Canadian appreciation of efforts aimed at the restoration of Italy.

5. In view of our general aim of reducing the distinction between Ministers and Ambassadors, I should think we could support the suggested change in status. The change would, I suppose, he some small indication of support for Italy's struggle to remain democratic. Incidentally it would remove the anomaly of maintaining in Rome a Minister "with the personal rank of Ambassador."

6. I see no real objection to our taking the initiative in this matter, as the Italians seem to attach some importance to it, and, if you agree, I shall see that the necessary steps are taken. ²⁰

7. Even if the decision is taken to raise our mission in Rome to an Embassy, I think we should have to make it clear to Mr. Désy that he cannot, on that account, expect to receive any additional staff for some time to come.

L.B. PEARSON

²⁰Note marginale :/Marginal note:
Could you clear this with P[rime] M[inister] or send him a memo about it before I take it up with him. Louis S. St. Laurent, Jan[uary] 14, 1948