File No. 652.119/325
The Ambassador in France ( Sharp) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 17, 6.20 a.m.]
2902. My telegram No. 2846, December 12, 4 p.m.1 Ministry of Blockade informs me that Ambassador Jusserand has been requested by telegraph to submit to you considerations to show importance [Page 1219] of a conference between representatives of America, France and Spain, relative to purchases of the Allies from the latter country. Ministry considers this of greatest urgency and has requested that I bring the matter to your attention with a view to a discussion of the matter to be held here between representatives of our Government and France in order to reach a definite agreement and then confer with Spanish delegates here. The British Government has recently signed an agreement of this nature with Spain which does not in any way interfere with a similar agreement which we might make. It is believed by the Ministry of Blockade that the three Governments could consolidate on one agreement at a later date. As the Department will readily understand the object of the proposed conference is to reach a definite agreement whereby through the creation of an inter-Allied bureau working under a definite agreement with Spain purchases will be made on behalf of the Allies without competition occurring between the latter. It is felt also that such an arrangement would tend greatly to assure the stability of the economic situation in Spain which at present gives rise to certain apprehensions.
- Not printed.↩