Foreign Relations of the United States Diplomatic Papers, 1933, The British Commonwealth, Europe, Near East and Africa, Volume II

651.113/118: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France (Strata)

Washington , May 12, 1933—5 p.m.

130. We are much concerned over press reports that the French Government contemplates the imposition of 15 per cent surtax on American imports if the dollar falls to 20.

In view of the appreciation of commodity prices in the United States since the depreciation of the dollar, the result would probably be an actual increase in the tariff burden to which American goods are subject. The United States adopted no such measures against France at the time of the depreciation of the franc.

Please investigate and report. Also inform the Department if there are indications of increased American competition in the French market as a result of dollar depreciation.

Hull