863.4061 All Quiet/5: Telegram
The Minister in Austria ( Stockton ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4:11 p.m.]
27. Reference Department’s 11, March 27, 4 p.m. Apparently Austrian Government not originally opposed to film on its merits. After ban of picture in Germany, German Government asked cooperation Austrian Government as demonstration of solidarity. Federal Government of Austria, lacking constitutional authority to ban film, urged that provinces prohibit it. Social Democratic Vienna ignored recommendation, but other provinces complied. Minor disturbances followed [Page 867] exhibition of film. Picture withdrawn ostensibly as police measure to prevent further disorder. Saw Schober21 who stated informally that with few alterations exhibition of film probably would be permitted. Schober said with adequate police protection demonstrations against film would soon cease. Expect definite decision in near future. Confident Schober would not approve withdrawing ban if he foresaw serious disturbances.
- Dr. Johann Schober, Vice Chancellor and Minister of Foreign Affairs.↩