667.003/90: Telegram

The High Commissioner at Constantinople (Bristol) to the Secretary of State

542. Allied High Commissioner[s] of Great Britain, France and Italy have approached me upon a proposition to restore in force the 11 per cent ad valorem tariff on all articles of import and in addition the consumption tax will continue to be levied on the same articles as heretofore. However, in case of objection by the United States to the consumption tax the Allies will agree to retain the present specific and consumption tax on [those] articles now paying consumption tax. Negotiations now proceeding and I will insist on complete reversion to the tax system in force before the abrogation of the capitulations. I will keep the Department informed of developments. Wythe9 requests Bureau of Foreign Commerce be informed of anticipated tariff changes.

Bristol
  1. George Wythe, U. S. trade commissioner at Constantinople.