Messersmith, G.S., Vienna. Despatch No. 719 to Secretary of State [Cordell Hull], Washington.
Date
1936-03-06
Authors
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Special Collections, University of Delaware Library
Abstract
Description
Nazi activity and discontent with present Austrian government have been strongest in provinces of Tirol, Styria, and Carinthia; discontent largely due to economic factors; efforts of Minister of Agriculture [Ludwig] Strobl to improve condition of the farmer in the provinces have met with some success; Chancellor [Kurt] Schuschnigg has made several visits to Tirol and Carinthia, where he was received favorably; situation in Styria has been improved by popularity there of its native son, Foreign Minister [Egon] Berger-Waldenegg; Chancellor has indicated intention of government to carry through present constitution and way is being prepared for elections in some of the ständs; Finance Minister [Ludwig Draxler], in recent speech in Vienna, emphasized improved financial position of government and intention of the government to maintain sound budgetary policy; implied that foreign capital could find favorable investment in Austria; Austrian-Czechoslovakian trade treaty expected to be concluded shortly; Czech Prime Minister [Milan] Hodza to arrive in Vienna on March 6; Austrian and Hungarian governments received invitations to send their heads of state to Rome on March 19; Chancellor [Kurt Schuschnigg] and Foreign Minister [Egon Berger-Waldenegg] to represent Austria and Prime Minister [Koloman de Kanya] to represent Hungary; much speculation as to reason for visit; according to Berger-Waldenegg it may be only to celebrate second anniversary of Rome Protocols, but some apprehension felt that Rome may make requests of them which they are not prepared to meet; afraid too of effects of visits on English and French attitude; while they wish to retain friendship of Italy, they want to do nothing to offend France and England; [Prince Ernst von] Starhemberg to visit Rome later; Starhemberg lays great importance on Italian troops on Brenner being maintained; probable that this concern is reason for his visit.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.