Foreign Relations of the United States, Diplomatic Papers, 1945, European Advisory Commission, Austria, Germany, Volume III

863.6363/12–445: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the United States Political Adviser for Austrian Affairs (Erhardt)

Washington, December 4, 1945—6 p.m.

330. British here report Austrian Government will shortly protest Allied Commission concerning USSR Control ex-German oil companies, and the refining program laid down by USSR authorities. Please advise Dept details of refining program.

McCreery instructed to support view that entire output oil industry not be used for Soviet purposes; that surplus above Soviet requirements as defined in detail and in advance be available for other Occupying forces and for Austrian domestic use, and for export.

In accordance with our 212 of Oct 25³⁷ and 217 of Oct 26 attempt to get some Austrian oil freed for Austrian use and exports for payment of imports, in ad hoc negotiations pending broader negotiations possibly arising from our recent note³⁸ on over-all interpretation Potsdam re German assets in Austria.

Byrnes

37. Not printed, but see footnote 74. p. 640.
38. See telegram 10380. November 29. to London, p. 668.