740.00112 European War 1939/1710: Telegram
The Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (White) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 9—7:45 a.m.]
14. The representative for Morocco of Socony-Vacuum Oil Company, after conference with General Noguès, has asked me to inquire whether Department would (1) informally approach British Embassy for exception to blockade in favor of French tanker to proceed from Casablanca to Aruba and return with Socony gasoline, kerosene and gas oil, (2) secure authorization payment in New York from blocked French Moroccan balances.
As regards first request, Axis Armistice Commission will not tolerate navicerts but Resident General will give guarantee that there will be no re-export from this country. This request is also being made unofficially in London through influential business interests. The British have arranged a tea shipment to the French Zone. Representative asks that Socony-Vacuum in New York be informed.
I have advised the Department by mail that by reason of its geographical position the trade restrictions and consequent scarcity imposed upon Morocco are in my opinion of no value to either side in this war and might be obviated.