File No. 659.119/119a
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Great Britain ( Page)
5795. For Vance McCormick from War Trade Board:
6. We request prompt answer Denmark. Hope you will agree with our views as to closing here. Polk agrees with us that prompt closing Denmark here important unless you have controlling reasons to contrary. Munson’s2 figures on shipping situation show increasing [Page 636] shortage here and very evident England trying force all Norwegian shipping to other side so as to be under her control. Importance of this understanding between Great Britain and us here before any other negotiation is fully agreed upon by all members of board. Failing this shipping shortage is going to leave us without sufficient tonnage to transport food supplies, nitrate, wool, manganese, and other necessities. Administration officials ready to take strong stand here with England on basis of 50–50 Norwegian and other tonnage. Consider this of paramount importance to settle first. Ask Taylor take up question English furnishing French cyanide needs permitting our supplying Mexico, Central America and other places saving tonnage.
- Frank C. Munson, representative of the Shipping Board on the War Trade Board.↩