831.248/74a: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Venezuela (Corrigan)

296. Venezuelans have submitted Lend-Lease request for assignment of 15 North American advanced trainers. Munitions Assignments Subcommittee—Air has recommended disapproval on basis of information submitted in naval attache’s confidential report of March 17 (Serial no. 71–43).6 Final action on request has, however, been postponed by the Munitions Assignments Committee—Air at the request of the Department.

Department would appreciate your comments on whether disapproval of request on basis of naval attache’s adverse report would appear justified and also whether disapproval at this time would be likely to result in any adverse repercussions. In latter event, MAC–A7 would no doubt be disposed to approve assignment of smaller number, if requested by Department to do so.

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Hull
  1. A summary of this report (not printed) was transmitted to the Department by the Ambassador in Venezuela in his despatch No. 4180, March 22, 1943. The Naval Attaché Lt. Sterling J. Cottrell, noted the great deterioration of aviation material in the hands of the Venezuelans and requested the sending of spare parts. (831.248/74)
  2. Munitions Assignments Committee—Air.