EXHIBIT S-125 we have been experiencing rather serious difficulties in Greece on account of Mesara Stavrianos, Piraeus, who, whilst we have concluded interesting agreements with the Greek wire drawers, decided on erecting a rolling-aill and making wire rods for the purpose of being re-rolled on the spot. I hear now that the above rolling-mill has been termineted in July and that the making of heavy plates and heavy bars is also being considered. We had expected to get the better of Stavrianos by fusing them any supplies of Semis and wire rods. But it appears that they are obtaining some from the United States and that deliveries have already been effected from the Bethlehem Steel Corporation, The Government facilitates the imports of American billet by granting special import licenses to that effect. I would ask you if, at the present stage of your negotiations with the Americans, you would deem it possible to dras our friends' attention to the interest which the steel makers have to hinder those attempts arising hers and there (and which are encouraged by the Governments) tending to re-rolling on the spot and thus substitute iaports of billets and wire rods for finished products. certain solidarity must exist in this respect between us, and in my opinion the small sacrifios which would result for the Americans from their giving up such supplies of Semis would be compensated by the decrease of a danger which is as serious for them as for ourselves. I wish to add that the producers who are coat heavily affected at this moment are Iweco's wire-drawing-liis. As you know, Iweco has concluded agreements with the American wire drawers which are giving good results. It is one more reason for appealing to the spirit of solidarity of our American Friends. I should feel obliged if you would give this matter your best consideration and let me have your opinion, eanwhile I beg you to believe me, dear r. Piggott, with best regards, |