Habana, November 2, 1957-4 p.m.

251. I hope that at next high-level meeting with all interested parties regarding Prio activities decision can be made to take stern measures curtailing Prio's activities in US, short of deportation. GOC maintains that US toleration of Prio activities is contrary to US obligations under 1928 convention on rights and duties of states in event of civil strife.

GOC maintains that constitutional liberties cannot be restored until the activities of Prio and Castro have been curtailed. If US takes measures to stop Prio's activities I will be in position to suggest to Batista that it is US hope that GOC can then restore constitutional guarantees, thus enabling Cuba to hold genuinely free and open elections.

If we are unsuccessful in that step, Department may then wish to review its policy with respect to Cuba in so far as military assistance program is concerned.

Constitutional guarantees have now been suspended until December 14. Decision re further 45 day extension will be taken prior to that date. Political party conventions, designations of candidates and electioneering in general normally reach high peak during that period. If guarantees are again suspended it is doubtful that opposition parties will participate in elections.

Smith

NOTE:

[1] Source: Department of State, Central Files, 737.00/11-257. Confidential.