823.032/44: Telegram
The Chargé in Peru ( Smith ) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 24—4:15 a.m.]
56. Department’s March 16, 5 p.m.12 In conference with President yesterday he explained status of the confiscation law as follows: The law passed on December 28 [26] has not been promulgated, but can be at any time unless annulled. He stated that he will not promulgate this law and reiterates his attitude as outlined in Legation’s 16, January 15, 3 p.m.12 He would be much pleased if Department would reply to his request for an opinion upon this law.
While the President feels the necessity of some control over conspirators against the Government, he desires to do nothing that would be contrary to the wishes or advice of the Democratic Party.
I recommend that the Department give its opinion upon the question as outlined in Legation’s January 15, 3 p.m. and February 12, 4 p.m.