883.0513/174: Telegram

The Chargé in Egypt ( Hall ) to the Secretary of State

55. My telegram No. 53, September 25, noon. Booth now informs me that the Minister of Justice is unwilling to make formal request for list of candidates and even objects to informal request from Booth followed by formal reply; Minister of Justice states he cannot alter position without consulting Prime Minister. The Prime Minister returns to Egypt October 12th. Minister of Justice has expressed to Booth a desire to see me and may verbally request list of candidates.

After stating on the 25th that the question of the American judge going to Mansourah would not arise, Booth now states he and the [Page 17] Minister of Justice believe this question should be left to the President of the Court of Appeals and hope American Government will not object.

I believe Egyptian position unwarranted. Will take no action whatever pending Department’s instruction.

Hall