835.741/47: Telegram

The Ambassador in Argentina (Armour) to the Secretary of State

1566. Department’s 1023, July 12, 9 p.m. In accordance with provisions of June 10 decree no code messages, commercial or otherwise, are being transmitted or received by radio. Commercial code messages may be sent by cable so long as plain language translations are filed with telecommunications companies; Government code messages are of course not subject to this provision. Spanish translations must be filed with plain language messages, whether cable or radio. A total of five commercial codes may be utilized in cable messages; six languages may be used in either radio or cable messages. Responsibility for enforcement of regulations rests largely with communications companies; in addition, however, there is effective Government control and censorship. International radio telephone conversations are monitored, officially and unofficially, by Government officials. News service transmissions are scrutinized both by employees of communications companies and by Government censors.

A more complete report on situation is being forwarded by airmail.

Armour