-4- c. After a further interval elections on a national level should be held. In this way the democratic process will be introduced, a constituent assembly created, a constitution promoted and the form of government determined. Under what auspices will such elections be held? All the dangers of novelty and inexperience will be met for the first time. How can free choice be achieved in practice? It is urged by all parties that during the period of readjustment above described, it will be a) essential that Allied military forces be maintained in Italy, b) that the Allies reserve definite and adequae authority to maintain order, c) that the Italian army remain subject to Allied military authority. This suggestion does not impose the necessity for a large allied or Italian army. A token force in the six largest centres with a strong central general staff with Italian officers participation would be adequate. In the economic field, at least during the period described, an Allied Advisory Committee, small in number with Italian representation, would be elpful in planning and assisting recovery and reconstruction The Allied Commission and AFHQ with their large staffs should be promptly liquidated. Italy would then begin to stand on its own feet With a prostrate Europe, each state occupied with its own economic and political salvation, Italy would be free to rehabilitate itself- at best a long and painful course-otherwise, what lies ahead for one of the oldest Mediterranean powers--Italy? {Myron C. Taylor} Myron C. Taylor |