690.969/10–2049: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the Philippines (Cowen)
1267. Urdes 829 Oct 5.69 Dept Circ Agam Oct 11 sent you outlines plan to seek Phil coop in implementation export control system intended prevent Chi Commies obtaining strategic goods for direct mil purposes or transshipment to USSR, north Korea, east Europe satellites via China goods denied those areas under present US export controls. Ref agam clarifies nature plan; you were instructed in it await detailed instrs before approaching Phil Govt.
Re desp raises question power Phil Govt enforce such controls without seeking legislative auth[ority]. In your opinion, cld Govt devise effective system controls without additional legis, in light Supreme Court decision? If not, is it advisable request Govt coop which cld only be forthcoming after legislative auth obtained? If legis necessary, how long a period must be allowed for its passage and promulgation implementing regs. Dept desires your views these questions and does not wish you consult Phil auths.
For urinfo, export controls envisaged wld not be likely affect seriously Phil exports nor affect possibility obtaining imports for Phil requirements. Sole object to prevent bldg up of transit trade in strategic goods from US and elsewhere destined ultimately for areas mentioned above. Effective controls expected to be obtained alternative transit centers Far East, including Hong Kong. Only practicable alternative to asking Phil Govt for coop is to subject US exports to Phil to same control procedures envisaged for other Far Eastern areas. What in your opinion wld be possible repercussions this?
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