121.5741/3: Telegram
The Ambassador in Great Britain (Houghton) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 11—10:07 a.m.]
213. Have received two official and one unofficial notes from the Foreign Office64 regarding customs attachés which will be forwarded by Monday’s pouch. The first refuses diplomatic status to attachés; the second maintains British Government’s objection in principle to inquiry as to cost of production with its element of compulsion and suggests that for the purpose an expert [chartered?] accountant, approved by the United States Government and the firm in question, should be appointed to examine books and give certificate. The informal communication explains that, while maintaining the question [Page 241] of principle, it is hoped in practice the customs attachés will be able to carry out their functions in such a way as not to cause complaints arising out of the question of principle.
- None printed.↩