611.003 Lead Pencils/11
Memorandum by Mr. Eugene H. Dooman of the Division of Far Eastern Affairs
| Conversation: | Mr. Ito, Second Secretary, Japanese Embassy |
| Mr. Eiji Wajima, Attaché, Japanese Embassy | |
| Mr. Ryder, Department of Commerce (N. R. A.88) | |
| Mr. Dooman. |
Mr. Ito asked if any decision had been reached with regard to the suggestions and counter-proposals put forward by him at yesterday’s meeting89 on the matter of restricting importations of lead pencils from Japan.
Mr. Ryder stated that his committee had given the counter-proposals and suggestions sympathetic and careful consideration. The committee concluded that it would be impossible to agree to any increase in the suggested figure of 125,000 gross as the maximum to be imported in any one year, but that it would recommend the granting of a maximum quarterly allotment of 45,000 gross, of which not more than 25,000 gross should be imported in any one month.
Mr. Dooman added that this Government would be prepared to enter into an understanding with the Japanese Government in the matter whenever the Japanese Government, for its part, found itself in [Page 804] position to enter into such understanding; that American consuls could not cooperate towards the restriction of exports from Japan along the lines suggested by the Japanese Embassy, but that, if any other practicable form of cooperation could be suggested, the American Government would be glad to study it.
Mr. Ito said that he was extremely gratified by the cordial response of the American Government. The Embassy, however, was not authorized to accept any figures other than those he had mentioned yesterday, and it would, therefore, be obliged to refer the American Government’s reply to Tokyo. He felt confident that early decision would be taken by his Government.
A discussion then ensued regarding the nature of the powers which the Japanese Government possessed to restrict exports. The two Japanese officers disagreed with each other as to the nature and extent of such powers, but they agreed that restriction could be effected by “administrative” measures.