645C.116/10
The Consul at Rangoon ( Brady ) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 30.]
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the Department’s instruction of May 5, 1941,51 in regard to the Department’s desire to ascertain the attitude of the Government of Burma toward granting free entry to importations of equipment and supplies to American missionary organizations, including educational, medical, and philanthropic institutions maintained by them, as well as to importations of clothing, foodstuffs, and professional equipment by the American personnel thereof.
In reply I have to report that, in compliance with the Department’s instruction, I have discussed this matter with the appropriate authorities of the Government of Burma in order to ascertain their reactions. These have included the Financial Commissioner of Burma, who is an adviser to the Ministry in matters affecting Government finances and revenue; with the Minister of Commerce and Industry, whose department includes customs administration; with the Minister of Lands and Revenue, who was formerly in charge of customs administration; and with the Governor of Burma. It is my opinion, as a result of these discussions, that there is a possibility of some concessions being granted, but only a possibility. I have to explain, however, that the matter would have to be placed before the Government of Burma in a formal manner, for examination and consideration, before there could be anything of a definite nature, and I should like to have the Department’s authorization to do this, by cable if there is no objection.52 I feel that nothing would be lost by carrying the matter to a decision, and something might be gained.
[Here follows discussion of attitude of several Burmese officials.]
Respectfully yours,