Messersmith, G.S., Vienna. Despatch No. 673 to Secretary of State [Cordell Hull], Washington.
Date
1936-01-23
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Chancellor went to Prague on Jan. 16 and returned Jan. 19; his speech before Industrial Club well received and had good press throughout Europe except in Hungary and Germany; he stated that economic cooperation between Austria and Czechoslovakia and between other states of Central Europe was essential; visit strengthened good feeling between the two countries and prepared favorable background for resumption of negotiation of trade agreement; Foreign Minister [Egon] Berger-Waldenegg not optimistic about trade agreement; Austria's unfavorable balance of trade with Czechoslovakia presents difficulties; meeting of Vaterlandische (Patriotic) Front held in Vienna on Jan. 19: addresses of Chancellor [Kurt Schuschnigg] and Vice-Chancellor [Ernst von Starhemberg] were significant; both emphasized that rumors of impending change in government were false and that Austria's chief concern at present was maintenance of her independence; rumors traceable to Nazi sources; constructive criticism of government welcomed; Austrian press comment on death of King of England indicates change of attitude; Government now orienting its policy toward placing major dependece on League and England and France; Vice-Chancellor von Starhemberg going to London for funeral; slowness of Italian payments more obvious and Austria's exports to Italy decline; no orders from Italy now accepted except on cash basis; Austrian economy still in fair condition; with her reduced budget, she may get through year without seeking a foreign loan.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.