821.6363/490: Telegram
The Chargé in Colombia (Matthews) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5 p.m.]
120. My 119, October 3, 3 [4] p.m. House of Representatives discussed but took no definite action upon either majority or minority report yesterday and a motion citing Minister of Industry to appear and give his views was left pending for today’s session. If Minister of Industry senses an unfavorable reaction to both bills he may reverse his position and not push either of them.
Only paper commenting emphasizes seriousness of question and doubts the wisdom of showing the world that Colombian contracts in which much foreign capital is invested are mere frauds of Colombian state and that its ministers act in bad faith.
Pedro Juan Navarro, member of the committee, made violent attack on Tropical in House of Representatives, asserting that company knew of documents and therefore acted in bad faith. …