File No. 657.119/272
The Minister in Norway ( Schmedeman) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 6, 4.25 a.m.]
505. This morning’s newspapers carry official statement of Norwegian reply to War Trade Board’s last proposal. The announcement appears to contain full substance of Norwegian note to Board with the exception of section 6 which is described as touching upon non-export of other foodstuffs than fish and fish products and as requiring no comment. I note that the Norwegian Government regards our statements concerning our willingness to make every effort to make Norway’s legitimate requirements in case of an agreement as “a binding engagement that the quantities of food supplies and other commodities which Norway requires shall really come to Norway,” and I would call special attention to the possibility of mistakes arising on this point.
British Minister informs me that he saw Minister for Foreign Affairs late last night and was told in reply to a question that the publication of the Norwegian note should not be construed as Norway’s last word and that on the contrary Norway desired to continue the negotiations.
With reference to third paragraph my telegram No. 504, February 4, 5 p.m.,1 I am now able to confirm substantial accuracy of unofficial information therein reported regarding the Norwegian note to Germany offering certain commodities to Germany though I do not know what commodities and quantities thereof were so offered.
- Not printed.↩