Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1945, The American Republics, Volume IX

832.6363/6–2545: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Brazil (Berle)

Washington, July 4, 1945—6 p.m.

1678. Reurgram A–861, June 13 and reurtel 2017, June 25.⁴² Present global fuel oil shortage makes any further increase in Brazilian fuel oil supplies out of the question at this time. Recently approved increase of 5,000 tons monthly to alleviate transportation and thereby assist FEA food purchasing program, it was assumed, would go primarily to industrial plants using wood for purpose of relieving railroads of wood shipments.

Has possibility been considered of giving textile mills now burning wood priority in allocation of this fuel oil and thereby facilitating both food procurement and textile programs? Considering greater efficiency of firing fuel oil, approved 5,000 tons fuel oil or substantial part of it might well meet major part of the requirements for textile manufacture.

This message was discussed with Batt’s⁴³ office which fully understands situation.

Byrnes

42. Neither printed.
43. Presumably William L. Batt, Vice Chairman, International Supply, War Production Board, and U.S. member, Combined Raw Materials Board—United States and United Kingdom.