740.21112 RP/40: Airgram

The Ambassador in Colombia (Lane) to the Secretary of State

[Extract]

A–178. Department’s telegram 138, January 29 and my reply 173, February 1, 11 a.m. On February 17 I took up again with Minister of Hacienda, Carlos Lleras Restrepo, importance of reaching decision with respect to replacement program. I reminded the Minister that the question had been pending since September and that it is our Government’s desire to make some progress in this most important question.

Dr. Lleras Restrepo said that a long time ago, when he was not in the Government, he had been approached by Sydney Ross95 for his professional advice regarding their problems in Colombia. Although he was not definitely employed by them he was loath, because of suspicions which attached to the Minister of Hacienda, especially in connection with nationalization questions, to be responsible for the nationalization of the drug industry, as it might be contended that any decision he might make would be influenced by personal motives. The Minister said that he had therefore requested the Acting President Dr. Echandía to designate another member of the Cabinet to take charge of the replacement program and that on February 14 the Acting President had designated Dr. Antonio Rocha, Minister of Education.

I am informed by Dr. Rocha’s office that he is now in Ibagué but that he is expected to return to Bogotá this afternoon. I shall endeavor to see him tomorrow in company with Mr. Victor Folsom of the Alien Property Custodian’s office.

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Lane
  1. Sydney Ross Company, subsidiary of Sterling Products, Inc.