352.1153 St 2/11: Telegram
The Chargé in Spain (Blair) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5 p.m.]
146. Embassy’s 144, December 27th, 11 a.m.51 Royal order published today makes petroleum monopoly effective January 1st, 1928. [Page 729] Practically all plants and equipment American-owned companies now seized for monopoly by the Spanish Government. Seizures made without previous valuation or compensation. The above order states however that interest on whatever value may finally be awarded will be paid from the date of seizures. News item appeared today Spanish press dated Washington yesterday stating that compensation for expropriated property will be made on a generous scale. Doubtless due to the influence of the censor the wording of the article implies that the American Government is entirely satisfied with explanations given by Spanish Government of the present abnormal situation. Article further makes deliberate misstatement that immediate compensation is to be paid whereas this cannot be effected for weeks if then. Having been questioned by the British and French Embassies with regard to the article which purports to emanate from the Department, I would appreciate accurate information regarding any statement made to the press.