Messersmith, G.S., Havana. To Sumner Welles, Washington.
Date
1940-10-19
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Comments on [Fulgencio] Batista's Cabinet; no really radical members, but chosen for their subservience to Batista rather than for competence; [Carlos] Saladrigas to be Premier; Batista proposed to Cabinet that Confederación de Trabajadores de Cuba be officially recognized and given legal status; C.T.C. Communist and not representative of Cuban labor; most members of Cabinet advised Batista against official recognition as dangerous and succeeded in getting action delayed; believes Batista was trying to fulfill campaign promise to Communists; glad Department insisting on broad examination of economic problems of mutual interest to Cuba and U.S.; Cuban press generally takes attitude that loan in itself could not help Cuban economy; responsible Cubans say if loan is made it should be for productive and constructive purposes; whatever U.S. gives must be earmarked and U.S. must control its spending; some expenditures provided for in loan bill not necessary; no immediate need for new hospitals as those existing are not properly or adequately used; new roads proposed to benefit only landholders along routes; tourism, though important source of revenue, not essential in time of emergency; sugar still mainstay of Cuban economy and U.S. might help to maintain present level of production with Export-Import Bank providing funds; provision adequate pure water supply for Havana another project worth financing, and one which would be self-liquidating; [Miguel Angel] Campa named Ambassador to Spain and [Orestes] Ferrara Ambassador-at-large.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.