832.24/11–344: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in Brazil (Donnelly)

3321. Department understands from Rubber Development Corporation that one factor possibly delaying issuance of Brazilian decree concerning use of synthetic rubber is a doubt regarding the essentiality of natural rubber in the United Nations war effort.

The Combined Raw Materials Board is preparing a release which in substance will reiterate that the vital need for natural rubber is as great today as it has ever been during the course of the war. This arises from the continued necessity to use natural rubber in greater or less quantities in a wide range of products, particularly large size and heavy duty aircraft, military and truck-size tires for which the direct military demand continues to exceed supply. In addition the movement of raw materials and finished products and workers to and from war factories creates large demands for the heavy duty tires for trucking and bus operations.

The Department therefore endorses the statement that the need for every pound of natural rubber that can be obtained is critical.

Please inform the Rubber Development Corporation representative, and so advise the Brazilian Foreign Office if you perceive no objection.

Stettinius