711.52/353: Telegram
The Ambassador in Spain (Hayes) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:23 p.m.]
546. Alba, Spanish Ambassador to London, told me yesterday that he saw Franco Monday.65 Franco talked as follows:
He is convinced the war will last 6 years and that it will end in utter exhaustion. He visualizes that Spain will be in an important strategic position and that the democracies will need Spain. Meanwhile, Spain needs a man like Franco to guide it. He is resolved that Spain will be strictly neutral and will give no favors to Germany. He is prepared to settle outstanding questions with US, such as German agents, suppression of German Consulate in Tangier, return of Blue Division, et cetera. The wolfram problem is more difficult. Alba said he did not develop this theme.
Alba feels that, while Franco’s prediction of a 6-year war is ridiculous, it reflects Franco’s sincere opinion and influences his thought and decisions on international matters.
Alba says he himself thinks Spain should meet our wishes. He says the British Government attach greatest importance to three matters in the following order: (1) Expulsion of German agents and suppression of Consulate in Tangier; (2) Italian merchant [Page 339] ships; (3) Blue Division. He says British are not especially concerned about a wolfram embargo or about the Italian warships. I assume, of course, that he has conveyed this impression to his Government.
Alba wonders if we are not making a mistake in taking such a peremptory attitude toward wolfram at this time.
With reference to the public reaction to our suspension of petroleum shipments, he thinks it possible that our attitude will solidify public opinion in Spain behind Franco. He believes it equally possible that Franco’s position will be undermined and that a change in regime will result.
Repeated London.
- February 14.↩