611.629 Ruhr/15: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Herrick) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4:45 p.m.]
215. Your no. 161, April 19, 5 p.m. I have twice taken up the subject of your instruction with the Foreign Office. I was informed, as the explanation of its attitude, that according to the German laws which the French Government continued to apply in the Ruhr, the export licenses ordered must be requested by the manufacturer, but that the French Government, as a favor to foreign commerce, is willing [Page 203] to set this provision of German law aside and permit the purchaser to request licenses with his Government’s support. This is what is requested of the United States Government for merchandise supplied to the United States. Foreign Office referred to its request as moderate and invited attention to the broad interpretation of the phrase “general interest”. Foreign Office also stated that this plan has been adopted by all countries and mentioned the smooth manner in which it is working. The principle involved in the Department’s attitude is recognized, and the Foreign Office would welcome any suggestions which would tend to a mutually satisfactory formula. I have consulted my colleagues in regard to the matter and I learn that they have accepted the requirements laid down by the French and are conforming to them, although before accepting them the Dutch, Swiss, and Swedish representatives had made numerous protests separately.
It was intimated by the Foreign Office that the time limit in which applications for export permits will be received will probably be extended beyond May 1.
The dates referred to in your last paragraph are confirmed by the Foreign Office as February 1 and May 1.