500.A15 a 1/362: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Great Britain (Sterling)
147. Following is text of telegram from Gibson, July 2, 11 a.m.:
[Here follows the text of telegram No. 53, printed on page 66.]
Tonnage figures suggested by Captain Egerton are considered by Department to be so excessive as to be beyond consideration by this Government. Better attempt no limitation at all than to go before the world with a proposition which almost doubles present British cruiser tonnage which, built and building, is 387,000 tons, of which approximately 60,000 approaches the age limit. Would British budget stand such a building program? If you think that any useful purpose would be served, I should be glad to have you express our views to Baldwin on account of apparent contradictions in British Government’s attitude; or, if you are unable to see him, discuss matter with Chamberlain.