871.6363/166: Telegram
The Minister in Rumania (Jay) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:55 p.m.]
22. Following message has been given to the Legation by Romano-Americana to be transmitted at their expense for Department’s information, with request that its contents be promptly communicated to E. J. Sadler, Standard Oil Company of New Jersey, 26 Broadway.
“Mining law submitted to Parliament with a few alterations over previous draft; namely, article number 36 extends the term of nationalization from 5 years to 10 years; article number 202 provides compensation for pipe lines expropriated; article number 207 gives right of exploiting for gas to the Rumanian Government alone or to the Rumanian Government with the cooperation of private capital according to the provisions of the commercial law. This will embarrass our operations at Aricesti. Other minor alterations do not [Page 607] change principles of confiscation involved in previous drafts. British Minister filed written protest yesterday; French Minister, Netherlands Minister and Belgian Minister will enter a protest tomorrow. Situation serious. … We are endeavoring to inform Rumanian King of the fact that the American, British, French, Dutch and Belgian Governments have protested. Our Minister Mr. Jay has spared no effort within his power to protect our interests and has greatly assisted us in an advisory manner. Commercialization law has passed both Houses and awaits signature of King. Please inform Washington.”