Foreign Relations of the United States, 1947, The American Republics, Volume VIII

825.5045/10–647: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Chile

confidential

Washington, October 7, 1947—6 p.m.

491. Following is situation coal allocations for export.

November allocations made Oct 3.

Due very tight coal situation US and critical winter requirements Europe total set aside for all LA countries drastically reduced. Allocation Chile 9,000 tons November compared 18,000 tons October.

You should tell Pres (urtel 776 Oct 6 4 p.m.⁶) possibility obtaining anywhere near 100,000 tons next month extremely remote. Dept however will have Chilean allocation reexamined at highest level but several days may be required for final decision.

To strengthen Dept’s discussion with allocation authorities telegraph miner’s current employment conditions, their demands, and differences between latter and wages and working conditions assured by govt but rejected by miners.

Lovett

6. Not printed.