811.504 Mexico/7–1444
The Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs (McGurk) to the Ambassador in Mexico (Messersmith)
Dear Mr. Ambassador: I refer to the recommendations prepared by the special commission on immigration and labor problems which met in Mexico City from May 29 to June 2, 1944.16
Mr. Joseph Savoretti, the Deputy Commissioner of Immigration and Naturalization, has just informed us that as a result of the intensified deportation program which the Mexicans requested in connection with Mexican agricultural workers illegally in this country, a total of 7,087 were returned to, Mexico during the month of June.
This figure indicates the seriousness with which Messrs. Harrison17 and Savoretti have undertaken to carry out the Immigration Service’s part of the recommendations. You will recall that during the meetings in Mexico City statistics were given to show that total deportations in the year 1942 were 2,905; in 1943, 9,818, and in the first four months of 1944, 9,353. It was understood at the time of the meetings that the Immigration Service could probably repatriate about 20,000 Mexicans in six months’ time. At the present rate, this number will be passed in three months. This rate probably indicates more enthusiasm than was necessary and no doubt explains many of the reactions in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.
[Page 1320]In view of this activity on the part of this Government, it would be most helpful if some agricultural workers under the agreement could be moved into Texas, even though only to the El Paso district which is now impatient for the arrival of the 2,000 workers under certification and negotiation.
Sincerely yours,