840.6362/12–1046: Telegram
The Chargé in the United Kingdom (Gallman) to the Secretary of State
10014. Salco 381 from MEA. US coal strike with its immediate effects on many European countries has been seriously damaging to US prestige. European reaction to the coal strike is a forecast of similar response that may be expected if reduction in US coal exports should occur as result of removal of controls essential to effective allocation and maximum shipments. Any significant decrease would be exaggerated and exploited as proof of alleged undependability of US by those who wish to undermine US foreign policy. We warmly approve decision to repatriate German POWS and recognize necessity of curtailing German coal exports.1 These developments, moreover, emphasize importance of US making every possible effort to export 2 million tons of coal to Europe monthly through 1947.
Gallman requests this cable be brought to attention of the Acting Secretary and Secretary.
- For documentation regarding the German coal question, see vol. ii, pp. 909 ff.↩