861.24/1801: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:54 p.m.]
2009. Your 1380, June 1, 8 p.m. It is well known that it is not the custom of the Soviet Government to give out statistical information on production as has been our practice. This is considered information of vital importance to conceal from the enemy. We on the other hand have had the policy of publicizing our production in order to undermine enemy morale.
[Page 1096]There is no doubt the Russians do not trust our security particularly on matters of this type and they are always fearful that leaks will occur. There is evidence that the Soviet concern on this point is justified.
Furthermore the Soviets do not have in anything like the same degree statistical reports on phases of their economy such as those prepared by the United States Government.
I am convinced that any suggestion for a general exchange of statistical data will for the above reasons be declined.
Before I came to Moscow in October, I reached a definite understanding with the Chiefs of Staff that we would not continue to make requests on the Soviet Government for general intelligence information; that when specific information was required the matter would be presented by the American Military Mission explaining the reasons why the particular information desired would be of direct value in the conduct of the war. This policy has led to the establishment of confidence and as a result we are obtaining more and more information of vital importance to military operations. Unless the agency requesting the information can justify the request for the data referred to in the above-mentioned telegram as of direct benefit to our military operations, this request will not conform to the decision of the Chiefs of Staff.
It might be better to initiate requests for production information informally with the Soviet Purchasing Commission in Washington. After you have considered the above I would appreciate further instructions.