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Authorization for Convocation of a Constituent Assembly in the Trizone (July 1, 1948)

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DOCUMENT II: Land Boundaries

The Ministers President are asked to examine the boundaries of the several states in order to determine what modifications they may want to propose. Such modifications should take account of traditional patterns, and avoid, to the extent feasible, the creation of states which are either too large or too small in comparison with the other states.

If these recommendations are not disapproved by the Military Governors, they should be submitted for the approval of the people of the affected areas not later than the time when the members of the constituent assembly are chosen.

Prior to the completion of the work of the constituent assembly, the Ministers President will take the necessary steps for the election of the assemblies of those states, the boundaries of which have been modified, so that these assemblies and those of the states, the boundaries of which have not been modified, will be in a position to determine the electoral procedure and regulations for the ratification of the constitution.


DOCUMENT III: Occupation Statute

The establishment of a constitutional German government will necessitate careful definition of the relationship between this government and the Allied Authorities.

It is the view of the Military Governors that this relationship should be based on the following general principles:

A. The Military Governors will grant legislative, executive and judicial power to German governments and reserve to themselves such powers as are necessary to ensure the fulfilment of the basic purpose of the occupation. Such powers are those necessary to enable the Military Governors to:

(a) Conduct or direct for the time being Germany's foreign relations;
(b) Exercise the minimum control over German foreign trade, and over internal policies and measures which could adversely affect foreign trade, necessary to ensure a respect for obligations entered into by the Occupying Powers in regard to Germany and the proper use of funds made available to Germany;
(c) Exercise such controls as have been or may be agreed upon, as for example, regarding the international authority for the Ruhr, reparations, the level of industry, decartelization, disarmament and demilitarization, and certain aspects of scientific research.
(d) Protect the prestige and ensure the security of the occupation forces and the satisfaction of their requirements within defined limits agreed upon between the Military Governors;
(e) Ensure the observance of the constitutions which they have approved.

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