800.515/12–745: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Argentina (Cabot)
1736. Re proposed complete revision Arg economic case as outlined in detail in instr in preparation Dept contemplates simultaneous, coordinate investigation of records of certain spearhead firms in Arg and of their principals in Ger.
Prep Arg case is regarded as most urgent and impt undertaking confronting this Govt in Hemisphere today. You are directed to suspend at once all other economic work, investigative or otherwise, which is not strictly urgent so that all available qualified personnel so engaged can be transferred to project. You shd arrange at once admission to all records of firms at places of business in which Emb can place now at least one investigator, and begin immediately examination of records. You may give as reasons to Arg authorities: (1) offer of Junta to permit access (2) need to obtain full picture Ger economic transactions being investigated by us in Ger. You shd endeavor procure authorization first from Junta and if unsuccessful approach FonOff. Since Ger investigators have already submitted partial reports on IG Farben, Stahlunion, Mannesmann, copies of which are being transmitted, as well as explored Holzmann files, Emb shd begin with Mannesmann, Thyssen Lametal, Geope and if possible Bayer.
Confidentially primary object of search is to procure evidence of any nature whatsoever from firms’ files re: (1) Connections between spearhead firms and individuals and Arg Govt and officials, including especially (a) contracts of any nature, (b) funds transferred for any purpose from enemy firms or persons to Arg officials or political parties, (c) funds or goods passing from Arg Govt or officials to enemy firms or persons, such as purchases in their behalf or subsidies in any form. (2) Connections between enemy firms and Ger Govt and officials. (3) Connections of Arg Govt and officials with Ger Govt and officials. (4) Inadequacy of Arg controls, especially (a) inimical activities of enemy firms in Arg and elsewhere, (b) connivance of Arg Govt in inimical activities, (c) economic transactions contrary to Rio V, Washington and Mexico City Resolutions. Investigations shd not be restricted as to time but shd cover completely war and prewar periods.
Reports shd be transmitted as evidence accumulates and last report not later than January 1st.