File No. 300.115/9932
The Chargé in Great Britain (Laughlin) to the Secretary of State
No. 4706
London,
September 6, 1916
.
[Received September
18.]
Sir: With reference to the Department’s
instruction No. 3676 of May 29 and to its cablegram No. 3750 of
August 28, relative to [Page 573] the
pressing need for knitting needles in the United States, I have the
honor to transmit herewith enclosed a copy of a note which has been
received from the Foreign Office in reply to my representations in
this matter.
I have [etc.]
[Enclosure]
The British Secretary of State for Foreign
Affairs (Grey) to
the American Charge’ (Laughlin)
No. 165141/C
London,
September 4, 1916
.
Sir: 1. With reference to Mr.
Page’s notes of the
14th and 28th June, relative to the shipment of German machine
knitting needles to the United States of America, I have the
honour to inform you that the manufacture of machine knitting
needles in this country has now reached a point where the output
is sufficient to allow of export in reasonable quantities to
other countries. The output of bearded needles is estimated to
be sufficient to meet the needs of neutral countries, and only
in the case of latch needles is it possible that adequate
supplies may not be immediately forthcoming.
2. I regret therefore that it will not be possible to consider
the application of the National Association of Hosiery and
Underwear Manufacturers without further details, and it will be
necessary to indicate the particular types of needles required
and the particular types of machines upon which they are to be
used, in order that it may be ascertained definitely whether the
quantities and types of needles in question can not be supplied
from this country.
3. I would accordingly suggest that samples of the needles
required should be submitted; and if this is done, His Majesty’s
Government will be happy to give further consideration to your
request.
4. The enclosures accompanying Mr. Page’s note under reply are returned
herewith.
I have [etc.]
For the Secretary of State:
M. de Bunsen
