835.911/10–247: Telegram
The Ambassador in Argentina (Bruce) to the Secretary of State
1203. Deptel 921, October 1. We have given careful thought proposed message from Secretary Marshall to Gainza Paz, publisher La Prensa and are convinced publication by La Prensa would have opposite effect from that intended. Perón would interpret message as direct slap at [Page 320] him and net result would probably be more Government pressure and persecution La Prensa.
In recent conversations President has shown growing inclination favor free enterprise and removal many onerous restrictions. One reason is he is realizing artificial restrictions are detrimental Argentine commerce and trade. He discussed this morning on own initiative question freedom press and exhibited conciliatory attitude. He deplored attack in foreign press on President Truman personally and objected strongly to attacks in our press on persons of Mrs. Perón and himself. He professed have no objection constructive criticism but considered attacks on subjects of foreign states and members of their families as being uncalled for, unjust and unfair, especially since foreigners have no means defense through libel laws or otherwise.
We share Department’s high esteem La Prensa and Gainza Paz, but believe proposed message would not only have bad repercussions for La Prensa but also would hamper delicate negotiations we are now carrying on with Perón.