File No. 763.72112/9730
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France ( Sharp)
5427. For McFadden [from War Trade Board]:
No. 266. Embassy’s 4710, your 329, August 8, 12 a.m. War Trade Board has been informed by Italian representative on Washington [Page 1039] black-list committee that Italian Government not prepared to participate in enemy trading license conference. British Government [Embassy] has received cable from Foreign Office, London, stating that French representative in Washington states French Government prepared to agree in event certain further exceptions made. From this it would appear that French Government has not as yet given full agreement. Communicate with French authorities and inform us exactly of their position in the matter. Impress upon them desirability of full cooperation and unity in these matters. Inform us fully of exceptions which French Government desires to make, giving examples. Also give your personal opinion as to desirability of such exceptions and state reasons which in your opinion underlie desires of French Government for these exceptions. French representative in Washington is cabling his Government for full information as to their position. Important that full agreement be reached between English, French, and United States immediately. Pending final agreement, we will transmit to you such cases as would be submitted to Paris conference. You will discuss these informally with proper French authorities and proper British official in Paris. You will cable result of each discussion to War Trade Board. Upon definite agreement reached with French Government, formal conference will be resumed without awaiting Italian participation. You will be notified.