831.24/1224: Airgram
The Ambassador in Venezuela (Corrigan) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 10—3 p.m.]
A–303. Referring to Department’s circular airgram, March 30, 7:30 p.m.34 and last paragraph of circular airgram February 15, 11:40 a.m.35 regarding further simplification of trade controls, this Embassy heartily in sympathy with any steps that may be taken, compatible with our war program, to eliminate existing trade controls and restore normal conditions as extensively and rapidly as possible. Except for the possibility that available shipping space may be reduced in next few months, the Embassy would favor positive steps toward further relaxation of controls prior to July 1. Sr. Rojas, Minister of Hacienda, this morning informed Mr. Groves that he favors removal of controls as rapidly and broadly as possible, but because he fears a possible reduction in available shipping space he feels it necessary to continue controls on certain products in order to assure shipment of essential merchandise.
[Page 1657]In view of increasingly favorable attitude here among the highest Government officers, it is believed that a far-reaching removal or simplification of controls at the earliest feasible date, consistent with our war program and shipping situation, will have good chance of acceptance at this end.