102.78/2–2146: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Bolivia (Adam)
us urgent
97. From Agriculture. In accordance with President’s directive30 to maximize shipments wheat and flour to areas in most dire need, new regulations require export license for every flour shipment. All wheat exports will be programmed directly by Agriculture. Your comments urgently needed on a tentatively proposed program for Bolivia 4,000 cwt. flour for first 6 months. The wheat allotment is subject to monthly review but present plan is to place flour under regular allocation. The contemplated flour allocation compares with shipments of 3,991 cwt. during first 6 months 1944 and with 28,323 cwt. during same period 1945.
That hardships will result from flour allocation under contemplation is fully realized here. But world situation such that ruthlessly drastic curtailment imperative if widespread starvation to be avoided in many areas sorely hit by war and famine. The contemplated allocation is strictly confidential and on no account should be revealed to local authorities. If you are convinced that increase in flour program [Page 418] absolutely essential, notwithstanding basic policy consideration mentioned above, wire urgently detailed justification and suggest target allocation. Suggestions for savings will be most welcome.
- Dated January 25, 1946; for substance of the directive, see Department of State Bulletin, February 3, 1946, p. 151.↩