832.5151/343: Telegram

The Ambassador in Brazil (Gibson) to the Secretary of State

67. Department’s 36, April 9, 4 p.m. Inquiries being actively pursued but have encountered much delay in securing information from Brazilian sources and in obtaining facts and views of American community. The same day the Department’s telegram was received Consul General and I attended a meeting of the Directors of the American Chamber of Commerce and asked they take immediate steps to furnish me with full information as to present status of exchange question, together with recommendations based on their experience. Despite their direct interest they have only today agreed upon drafting of questionnaire to be sent to members. I find great divergence of opinion among Americans as to what should be done. I have, however, independently made a general canvas of American firms and am gathering considerable amount of information.

Brazilian authorities have repeatedly promised information which is not yet forthcoming.

Foregoing merely to reassure Department that matter is receiving attention of Consul General, Commercial Attaché and Embassy.

Gibson