FOREIGN RELATIONS, 19 4 6, VOLUME VI



in answer to first question and over 2 to 1 "no" for second question.
In southeastern town of Tarnow "noes" lead over 6 to 1 for first
ques-
tion and over 4 to 1 second question. In Poznan voting not quite
4 to 1 "no" first question and slight majority "no" second
question.
On third question "no" has varied from 10 to 35%.81
  Returns published in Govt press thus far have almost unanimously
reported large majorities in favor of "yes" answer to all referendum
questions.
  Mikolajczyk expressed belief that actual number "no" votes would
be approximately as follows: first question 85%, second 60%, third
10%. He anticipates, however, that Govt will announce results ap-
proximately as follows: "yes" vote first question 60%, second 75%,
third 95%.
  He states that those opposed to Govt had voted (1) to prove that
conditions had enabled holding of referendum without serious dis-
turbances, election could likewise be held; (2) (do they want to take
political action by legal means) underground had asked for boycott
of referendum; (3) actual participation would make falsification of
returns more difficult.
  Mikolajczyk stated results have been so contrary to Govt's wishes
that it is seriously concerned by developments.
  When Keith inquired what development might next be anticipated
Mikolajczyk, obviously delighted by voting results, said that perhaps
logical thing for Govt to do would be "to declare a dictatorship"
(though Govt could not do so, so he said). Govt know results to be
published each day would bring further evidence of irregularities
which would increase its difficulties.
  Mikolajczyk did not rule out possibility of serious disturbances
coming later but he did not appear worried. Stated he knew Security
Police had just received orders to be prepared for some drastic action,
but elaboration of this was not obtainable.
  Mikolajczyk remarked that from experience of procedure followed
by Govt in connection with referendum it would be possible to require
provisions in the election law which would make it more difficult for
Govt to commit irregularities at elections should such be held.
                                                                LANE
  81The three questions appearing in the referendum ballot were as follows:
1. Are you in favor of the abolishment of the Senate? 2. Are you for making
permanent, through the future Constitution, the economic system instituted
by
the land-reform and nationalization of the basic industries, with maintenance
of
the rights of private enterprise? 3. Are you for the Polish Western frontiers
as
fixed on the Baltic and on the Oder and Neisse? According to telegram 1072,
July 12, from Warsaw, the official results of the referendum published in
the
press on July 12 were as follows: Of 13,160,451 persons entitled to vote,
11,857,986
voted and 11,530,551 valid ballots were cast; "yes" answers to
the first question-
7,844,522, to the second question-8,896,105, and to the third question-10,534,697.
(860C.00/7-1246)



472