837.00/4146: Telegram
The Ambassador in Cuba (Welles) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 8—3:23 a.m.]
347. I had a confernce advised me that he realized now fully that the present regime was a complete failure and that a concentration government in which, the political groups and the commercial interests of the country could have confidence was an absolute necessity. He also stated that he appreciated the fact that recognition by the United States was essential before any improvement in conditions here could be expected.
He has already arranged for interviews with Mendieta and Gómez tomorrow and Monday and assured me that he would not cease his pressure until a new government supported by public opinion was installed through peaceful methods.
He was deeply impressed by the fact that delegates of all of the important business and financial groups in Cuba had visited him this afternoon before I saw him to insist upon the creation of a government in which the public could have confidence.
The students today selected as their representatives in the negotiations for the solution of the political problems the following university professors: Doctors Dolzvieta and Carrera Justiz. All of these are disposed to work for a complete change in the present administration.
Batista told me that he had already advised the Student Directorate that the Army would not permit any interference by the students [Page 478] in government here and that they must return to the university which reopens next week and remain there.
He also assured me of his intention to proceed immediately with a firm hand in all of the American sugar plantations where labor troubles still existed, by arresting and removing all Communist leaders and by using the troops to restore order wherever it was necessary.