Pages 38-40 from FCO 371_149472 - Indian atomic power station

This inward telegram reports a conversation with M. de Rose, who is in charge of nuclear matters at the Quai d'Orsay in Paris, regarding the issue of safeguards for the Indian nuclear power station. M. de Rose responded hostilely, expressing frustration at the exclusion of France from the nuclear club and questioning why they should accept the obligations of the club without enjoying its privileges. The British representative argued that cooperation was necessary for the interests of the Western alliance as a whole and highlighted the potential adverse impact on the general Western position if safeguards were not applied. M. de Rose acknowledged the validity of the argument but was reluctant to commit to a decision or disclose their stance in advance. He stated that the French government was under no pressure to reach a decision quickly and implied that it might not be made before the tender submission deadline. The British representative emphasized the need for an early decision and expressed the possibility of not applying safeguards if the French did not. M. de Rose remained unmoved, citing the French government's longstanding position. The United States Embassy will also engage in discussions with M. de Rose, but it is expected that shaking the French stance will be challenging due to underlying resentment. The recommendation is to focus on urging the French to inform the British government of their decision.