800.6363/1706a: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom ( Winant )
4493. As you know, the exploratory oil discussions held in Washington in the latter part of April resulted in a substantial measure of agreement on an ad referendum basis. It was our understanding and hope that the British Government would expedite definitive action on this agreement.
The British Embassy here informs us that the matter is still under consideration by the British Government which indicates that there will be further delay before the departure of any group from London for final conversations. We are also informed that the Ambassador here is urging his Government to take prompt action.
[Page 117]For your confidential information the Maloney Committee, which is a special Senate committee on petroleum, is suspending public hearings on all matters connected with foreign oil until the Anglo-American discussions are consummated. Moreover, prolonged delay may cause press and other comment which it would be preferable to avoid. It is therefore desirable that final agreement be reached with the British without further delay and it is requested that you urge upon the British authorities that they take prompt action to that end.