852.48/817: Telegram
The Ambassador in Spain (Weddell) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4:55 p.m.]
726. My 723, December 13, 5 p.m.29 Department’s 346, December 14, 5 p.m.30 The British Ambassador tells me this morning that the action by the Spanish Government concerning Tangier reported in my 725, December 15, noon, had come as a complete surprise to him and had produced a strong unfavorable reaction in London whose instructions he was now awaiting. He had seen the Minister for Foreign Affairs whose attitude was that this action flowed logically from the decree of November 23 reported in my 692, December 2, 11 a.m., and that the attitude of the British Government in protesting indicated a desire to dictate Spanish foreign policy. This latter, the Ambassador said he flatly countered, pointing out that precipitate action of this kind where interests of various friendly powers were involved was ill-considered. He further emphasized to the Minister the unpleasant impression produced in London, whose instructions he was awaiting, and added that he left the matter in the Minister’s hands having the intention to see him today or tomorrow and learn if he was not prepared to suggest a solution.
The Ambassador who spoke in a more optimistic vein over the general outlook than I have yet observed is of opinion that in view of [Page 800] British successes in Egypt and events in Albania announcement of relief measures for Spain by his and our Government would be particularly timely although recognizing the obstacle created by the action under reference. He said further that the Spanish shipping necessary for Canadian wheat shipments are now in North American ports and no physical delay need be anticipated.
- Not printed.↩
- Vol. ii, p. 847.↩