841.6176/36: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Great Britain (Houghton)
343. The Rubber Association of America has informed Department that situation is becoming more serious; that situation is speculative in the absence of the following information: (1) Whether Government of Great Britain intends to modify the Stevenson Plan or make it more flexible, and (2) whether when 100 percent is reached restriction will be removed, or whether 100 percent would be taken to mean 100 percent of standard production only.
Unless you perceive some objection, make inquiry of Chamberlain, informally and discreetly, regarding attitude of Great Britain on the above. You may also tell him, in your discretion, that your Government would be pleased to know whether any relief measures have been determined upon and that you earnestly hope that the Government of Great Britain, knowing the difficulties of the situation, may be able to take such measures. Cable reply.