611.47H31/28: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Wellington (Hitch)
Your May 23, 4 p.m. You may say to the Acting Prime Minister that it is expected that legislation will be introduced in a short time which would authorize the President to conclude trade agreements. Pending the enactment of this legislation, the United States Government is not in a position to initiate negotiations with other governments. A certain amount of time will also have to be allowed for organization of machinery and programme for negotiations. I should, however, welcome and give careful consideration to any proposals which the New Zealand Government may wish to make in the meantime. Please request that no publicity be given to this matter at this time.