-4- All the evidence which has been obtained directly by this Department and all the evidence transmitted to me as Chairman of the National Munition Control Board by the War and Navy Departments indicates definitely that neither Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei, G.m.b.H., nor the German Government has any intention whatever of using any of the helium to be exported under the allotment mentioned above otherwise than for the inflation of the airship LZ-130 in commercial operations between Germany and the United States. I have examined the memorandum prepared by Mr. Richard C. Horne, transmitted to me with your letter. I venture to suggest that, in evaluating any statements made by Mr. Horne in regard to the exportation of helium, it should be borne in mind that he is the Washington representative of All-American Airways, Incorporated, a company which proposes to develop lighter-than-air navigation in the United States and apparently entertains the hope that competition by foreign companies may be forestalled. I have no further comment to make in regard to Mr. Horne's memorandum. I am transmitting copies of this letter to the President and to the members of the National Munitions Control Board for their information. Sincerely yours, CORDELL HULL |