German Rearmament

Report Outline
Western Unity and Germany's Defense Role
Major Decisions of the London Conference
Efforts to Control German Military Power
German Attitudes on Rearmament and Unity
Special Focus

Western Unity and Germany's Defense Role

Success of the nine-power conference at London three O weeks ago, following close on the grave setback to North Atlantic defense planning administered by French rejection of the European Defense Community treaty, put an entirely new face on the prospects for final composure of differences on German rearmament. Although the London agreements-in-principle did not bridge completely the gap left in the defense structure by demise of the E.D.C. project, they marked the reassuring beginning of a fresh collective effort to achieve West European unity and security.

The general principles laid down at London between Sept. 28 and Oct. 3 established a new framework within which the German Federal Republic is expected to assume, by stages, a vital role in development of the western defense system on the Continent of Europe. The Federal Republic is promised virtual sovereignty, with termination of the occupation regime “as soon as possible”; it is to be offered equal partnership in the North Atlantic alliance; and, together with Italy, it is to be invited to join a strengthened Brussels treaty organization, whose members are pledged to go automatically to one another's assistance in the event of external aggression.

Steps Necessary to Implement London Accord

Many steps remain to be taken before the general principles agreed on at London are put in treaty form for ratification by the governments concerned. Important decisions relating to German sovereignty, left open at the London meeting, must be worked out in detail by the three occupying powers in collaboration with the West German government. Complex problems will have to be solved by the Brussels treaty powers, particularly the problem of devising controversial armament controls on Germany and the other continental nations.