246. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Germany0
2692. For Under Secretary. Following is an informal translation of a letter to Under Secretary from Spaak dated March 27. Letter received March 30 from Belgian Ambassador.
"Dear Mr. Ball:
I have received your letter of March 191 and wish to thank you for the trouble you have taken in writing it to me.
I presume that you desire from me my sincere impressions. I would not conceal from you that the measure taken by the Government of the United States to increase the customs duties on glass and carpets has caused a very great reaction in my country and has even resulted in press articles extremely disagreeable for the United States.
What has struck everyone, if you will permit me to mention it, is that this action was taken a few days after an agreement had been reached between the Common Market and the United States. Even if it is not exact, one cannot overcome the impression of a great number of my compatriots that the United States has waited for the success of the Dillon negotiations to take vis-a-vis Belgium extremely prejudicial measures.
My colleague, the Minister of Foreign Commerce, is strongly protesting what has happened before the European Community which seems to have promised him its support. This affair is going to have certain ramifications, and I consider that regrettable. It would be in my view highly desirable that the Government of the United States review its position.
Accept, dear Mr. Ball, best wishes.
(Signed) P. H. Spaak.”