Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, Volume V, Microfiche Supplement, American Republics

VE–3. Telegram from the Charge in Venezuela (Burrows) to the Department of State¹

Caracas, February 12, 1958, 5 p.m.

On very confidential basis I was visited this morning (meeting arranged through intermediary) [text not declassified] who said he has been named by Larrazábal personally organize new secret political investigative bureau. Emphasized interest in Communism and not, as SN, in mere anti-government sentiments.

Expressed hope Embassy would be able collaborate with advice on organizational, other phases of work. Asked personal opinion re U.S. reaction if Venezuela were to approve legal status Communist Party and said Larrazábal would speak to me near future about this. He explained further such action would be in response pressure recognize all parties and might be, as far as Communists concerned, for temporary period.

I avoided [text not declassified] commitment any kind pending formal clarification [text not declassified] status. Meanwhile I would appreciate any guidance Department may be able furnish² for reply Larrazábal if he should approach me along lines suggested. After conversation³ [text not declassified] advised by other source Congressional elections when held will probably be on basis 20 percent seats for each of three major parties, 5 percent for Communists, 35 percent for junta.

Burrows

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 731.5/2–1258. Confidential; Limit Distribution 575.
2. Telegram 483, to Caracas, February 13, 1958, in part stated, “Department believes immediate categoric answer should be given other government official that U.S. believes GOV would be making very serious mistake in granting legal status to Communists . . . . Manner in which Communists already have begun participate local political and labor activities is indicative efforts they will make to infiltrate all sectors government and gain participation Venezuelan political scene. The rapidity with which Communist leaders returned Venezuela and their intensive activities point up danger inherent granting legality Communist Party.” With respect to assistance for a new secret investigative bureau, the telegram instructed the Embassy to indicate willingness to discuss the matter with Larrazábal and stated that while the Department would have interest in helping to establish technical police methods along the lines of U.S. investigative agencies, “It would be necessary emphasize Larrazábal that U.S. of course could not be associated in any way with police or investigative organizations which might assume character former SN.” (731.5/2–1258)
3. Larrazábal requested that Burrows speak with him on February 25, 1958, and the Chargé discussed the subject with him along the lines suggested in telegram 483. (731.5/2–2658)