868.5151/117: Telegram
The Chargé in Greece (Morris) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 12—1:30 p.m.]
89. I was received by Venizelos this morning and brought to his attention the contents of your No. 38. He said he must await return from London about September 20 of Finance Minister Varvaressos [Page 436] to ascertain reasons for drawing up decree in its present form before he can consider possible modification. Venizelos feels that foreigners permanently residing in Greece should not be exempt but gave me impression that he is ready to liberalize present rigid interpretation of residence. I and my colleagues are of the opinion that this question will remain in status quo until after national elections on September 25 and possibly until its submission to the new Parliament in October. I am hopeful that substantial favorable changes in law will be introduced then.