740.0011 European War 1939/8817

Memorandum of Conversation, by the Secretary of State

The British Ambassador27 called at his request. I inquired of him what he knew about the Balkan situation and prospective movements of the various interested countries in that area, to which he replied that he had nothing from his Government on the subject. The Ambassador proceeded very definitely to inquire whether this Government would supply Turkey with war materials direct or whether it would have to be done by or through Great Britain. I replied that it is my understanding that this Government would contemplate the fullest feasible measure of cooperation in supplying materials to Turkey under appropriate circumstances, but that I would confirm the matter by further conferences and advise the Ambassador at an early date.

C[ordell] H[ull]
  1. Viscount Halifax.