861.4061 Motion Pictures/105: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:30 p.m.]
1291. I urge that the Department reconsider the procedure suggested in its 893 April 13, noon and that the Department proceed promptly with making the inquiries requested by the Soviet Government. It seems to me that the Department can do this much more expeditiously and with less embarrassment than can the Soviet authorities. Would it not be possible for the Department to approach each company by telegraph asking whether those listed were in the army or Government employment without mentioning the reason for the requested information.
In view of the time which has already lapsed since we received the Soviet request, and of the Soviet desire for an early reply, I earnestly hope that this matter can be handled with the utmost expedition as a matter of courtesy to the Soviet Government.