835.741/41: Telegram

The Ambassador in Argentina (Armour) to the Secretary of State

1350. In conversation with Foreign Minister this afternoon when I called to present members of Embassy staff he told me in confidence that the German, Japanese and Italian Embassies had made clear their views on radio telecommunications decree. The Japanese representations had included a veiled threat, the Germans had been reasonable, and the Italians suppliant. The basis of the representations had been the argument that without the privilege of communicating with their Governments in code their Missions here would largely become useless. His reply in all instances had been entirely categorical: That Argentina had certain obligations vis-á-vis the other American Republics and that it intended to carry out those obligations and commitments and that the decree would not be modified. As he realized this reply might very possibly lead to a break in relations with one or more of the powers he had informed the President of the position he had taken, asking his approval and if he approved, suggesting he advise the Ministers of War and Marine, particularly the latter as the future course of events might necessitate their being held in readiness. The President had this morning notified him that he entirely approved of the position he had taken. I took the occasion to communicate to the Minister the contents of Department’s telegram 873, June 15,49 with which he seemed much pleased.

He referred to the question of Graf Spee50 sailors which British Ambassador had raised with him and said that immediate steps were being taken to prevent further escapes although unfortunately it was too late to make up for the laxness shown by the previous Government. [Page 527] German speaking military and naval officers had been designated to keep close watch over movements of Graf Spee officers and men still in the country.

Referring to internal situation he said there had been grave corruption under the previous Government among Government officials and in the courts and that his Government proposed to clean this up after which elections would be called and the Government returned to constitutional channels. “After all,” he said “I am a Republican and believe in the Republican form of government”.

While he did not raise petroleum question51 specifically there were other matters, he said, which he wished to discuss with me shortly at some length and I judge this is one of them. For this reason I hope Department can advise me as soon as possible of decision reached on my telegram 1300, June 11, 5 p.m., and 1344, June 16, 4 p.m.52

Armour
  1. Not printed; this telegram indicated the satisfaction with which the Department learned of the decree limiting telecommunications (835.741/43a).
  2. For correspondence concerning the last days of this German battleship, see Foreign Relations, 1939, vol. v, pp. 91108.
  3. See pp. 379 ff.
  4. Ante, pp. 377 and 390, respectively.