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

611.2331/5–947: Telegram

The Chargé in Peru (De Lambert) to the Secretary of State

secret
us urgent

Lima, May 9, 1947—4 p.m.

346. Reurtel 152 March 25 and subsequent communications. FonOff formally requests Dept’s assistance in obtaining emergency allocation 15,000 tons wheat for earliest shipment plus monthly quota 12,000 tons through December. In view our Government’s previously negative response to long term wheat commitment request Peru now negotiating with Argentina (mytel 341 May 7⁶⁹); but Peru Embassy, Buenos Aires, warns extreme difficulties to be encountered this direction, at least until availability new crop November/December. Present Peruvian stocks 6,500 tons wheat and 40,000 quintals flour to last with rationing 51 percent normal consumption Lima 24 percent provinces, until first week June only. Embassy strongly recommends appropriate assistance and requests telegraphic reply results.

De Lambert

69. Not printed.