711.415 Traders/46: Telegram
The Consul General at Sydney (Caldwell) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 2—7:28 a.m.]
I have discussed in Canberra proposed exchange of notes and presented informally unsigned copy in accordance with Department’s instruction of January 30. I was asked to send written proposal, which apparently was not contemplated by instruction.
I was informed unofficially by Controller General of Customs, to whom matter has been referred, that he considers that my proposal should not be considered in connection with entry of Australian business men, but that latter should be considered in relation to Australian treatment of American business men; that any privilege given Canada is [a domestic] matter only; and that acceptance of my proposal would require revision of customs law giving same privilege to all countries, with considerable financial loss to Customs.
If the Department desires me to send written communication I would appreciate instructions as to its contents, particularly concerning any references to Canada. I doubt that Customs will discuss my proposal if based on treatment of Australian business men.