611.5131/999: Telegram

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

745. Reference to my telegram No. 707, September 28, 5 p.m.29 L’ Information on the 10th carried an article relative to Franco-American commercial negotiations. This subversive [sic] paper is largely controlled by the steel trust and Banque de Paris et des Pays Bas and is often used by the Government for dissemination of economic information. In this apparently inspired article, after commenting favorably upon the American Government’s program for breaking down trade barriers it is said that we have taken the initiative in seeking opportunities for reciprocal concessions and that it is for us to make the first proposals. It is added that the principle of negotiations with France is admitted and that the opening of conversations may be expected during the course of the next month.

This latter statement strengthens my belief that it would be well if the Department might find a way of informing the press that negotiations with France are not contemplated until some time next year.

Straus
  1. Not printed.