832.5151/260: Telegram
The Ambassador in Brazil (Gibson) to the Acting Secretary of State
Rio de
Janeiro, December 21,
1933—noon.
[Received 12:15 p.m.]
[Received 12:15 p.m.]
124. Department’s 110, December 20, 5 p.m.
- 1.
- Since November 30th limited exchange is being given to American importers requesting it. Highly preferential treatment is being given to importers of raw materials.
- 2.
- Local importers of American flour have not asked for exchange since restrictions went into effect.
- 3.
- The American firms which signed the blocked credits agreement are not getting full exchange for current importations as therein provided. The Embassy has received conflicting reports regarding the amount of exchange actually attempted.
- 4.
- Figueiredo has been profuse with statements and assurances which in practice have proved untrustworthy. His sudden changes of policy are prejudicial to legitimate American business.
- 5.
- Some relief for American importers might be secured through informal representations at the Foreign Office but I am inclined to doubt the lasting efficacy of this. More important results could doubtless be secured by action on the part of Kent; if this policy is adopted, it is of the utmost importance that Kent act in the most delicate possible manner.
Gibson