891.24/178a: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Minister in Iran ( Dreyfus )
80. Department informed that British Ministry of Food has program contemplating shipment of approximately 17,000 tons Canadian wheat monthly to Iran consigned to “Irano-British Trading Corporation” for consumption by civilian population and Allied Military Forces. Please telegraph available information on following points:
- 1.
- Has execution of any such program begun?
- 2.
- Is it satisfactory to Iranian Government?
- 3.
- On what basis is distribution made?
- 4.
- Is Iran at present importing wheat from any other source for its own needs? In what quantities?
- 5.
- Estimated imports required to satisfy minimum Iranian needs?
- 6.
- Do you consider that Ministry of Food program, if carried out, would eliminate necessity for other imports of wheat?
In any discreet inquiries which you may make in this connection, you should avoid giving the impression (a) that the United States is thinking of leaving question of Iranian food supply entirely in British hands, or (b) that we doubt good faith and good intentions of either Iranians or British.
Reference Department’s 66, March 13,1 for your confidential information, it has been found that Canadian wheat can be purchased in open market more cheaply than American. Consequently, Saleh has purchased about 10,000 long tons Manitoba wheat and is trying arrange [Page 122] shipment small quantity early next month. Lend-Lease machinery not involved but this Government is giving active assistance in obtaining shipping space and expediting export license.