875.6363/118: Telegram
The Chargé in Albania (Swift) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 26—2:08 a.m.]
54. The Anglo-Persian Company has categorically refused to modify the contract to include drilling operations. It is reported that yesterday the British Minister informed the Albanian Prime Minister that unless the Anglo-Persian Company’s contract was accepted and ratified in its present form during the present session of the [Page 393] Parliament, which will adjourn on September 13 [30], he would withdraw immediately, an act which would virtually sever diplomatic relations. It is impossible to state definitely whether the Minister threatened to leave Albania or reiterated threats previously made regarding the withdrawal of British favor in the delimitation of Albania’s southern frontier, but there can be little doubt that he has brought pressure to bear heavily. Yesterday the Government decided suddenly to bring the question of the oil concession before Parliament and it was under debate this morning although no decision was reached. It will be taken up again at the afternoon session. Opinion had been unanimous until yesterday that the matter of oil concession would not be brought before the Parliament during its present session. It is rumored that the Government is willing to meet important demands of the Opposition regarding the election law which is now before Parliament if the opposition will in turn agree not to obstruct action on the Anglo-Persian’s contract.