Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1945, The American Republics, Volume IX

837.5018/12–1745: Telegram

The Ambassador in Cuba (Norweb) to the Secretary of State

Habana, December 17, 1945—9 p.m.
[Received December 18—1:05 a.m.]

807. FonMin told me today that as result of expiration of special flour subsidy to Cuba flour stocks will soon be completely exhausted and that Cuba was therefore contemplating sending to Washington official commission composed of representatives of ORPA and food trade to discuss new stabilization agreement thereby preparing way for resumption of sugar negotiations early next year (see Emb’s report of December 14, 1945 entitled “Cuban Price Stabilization for Basic Foodstuffs”).⁹ Minister’s remarks apparently indicate Cubans are not disposed to take seriously our repeated refusals to enter into another stabilization agreement.

A similar situation arose late in 1944 when Cuban Government to avoid flour shortage itself subsidized imports during first few months of 1945.

Norweb

9. Not printed.