865.4061 Motion Pictures/91: Telegram

The Ambassador in Italy (Phillips) to the Secretary of State

520. My 517, December 10, 10 a.m. Have had a further discussion with Ciano with regard to American film companies. He now tells me that his note which I received yesterday granted 8 million in addition to the present quota of 8 for American film companies but that the 3 million now allotted to the Italian companies importing foreign films would be used in part for the benefit of American films and he gave me to believe that he might be able to secure an additional million for American companies. The figure of 24 million which we had been led to believe was for the benefit of American films he said covers the total allocation for the importation of all foreign films. I pointed out that the other requirements of the American companies had never been answered in writing and that I must insist upon a written communication from him setting forth the facts which he had just told me and giving a favorable answer to the other points in the discussion. Ciano promised that I should have such a written communication by tomorrow afternoon. Please advise Mr. Hays.

Phillips