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Ministerialdirigent Ruelberg: Explains that in the event of a
10 percent rise in imports (about 400 millions), we will have a reduction in
foreign exchange of about 170 millions, because the Russians have to repay 220
millions in 1935 and only 50 millions in 1936. Thus, compared with an
additional demand of 960 millions for imports, there are at the most 230
millions additional receipts for export, etcetera, so that an additional demand
for 700 million RM remains for 1936.
Minister President Goering:
Mentions that the desire for general information about the raw materials
situation has been satisfied. He emphasizes its importance for questions of
increased export and the procurement of substitutes for raw materials. The lack
of 700 millions is a heavy burden. Relief is to be sought primarily by
increasing exports, then by increasing the output of raw materials, by
increased use of substitutes, reorganization in the utilization of materials
and salvaging of waste materials, moreover, the consideration of manufactured
goods as reserves for raw materials, increase of agricultural production
wherever the need is critical, and the coordination of divergent efforts. The
motor fuels situation appears very unfavorable from the point of view of
foreign exchange, but offers many possibilities for improvement as an immediate
measure. In agriculture the harvest yield is a great factor of uncertainty.
This year, however, there is reason to hope for relief through a good harvest.
For the time being, it is also necessary to carry out less obvious improvements
and to examine the present organization for mistakes.
After everybody
has been given this survey the gentlemen are asked to cooperate in the effort
to master the situation. The situation is not to be regarded as something fixed
and unchangeable, but as a starting point for new measures to be taken, at the
head of which is export. Proposals in all fields are expected from those
present. Questions concerning domestic raw materials and substitute materials
are emphasized again. It is stressed that at any moment we might be confronted
with a situation of unparalleled seriousness, with which we must be in position
to deal. Everything has to be regarded from these points of view.
The
speed of armament must under no circumstances be impaired; on the contrary,
even the interests of the factories themselves should be relegated to the
background. An appeal is made to the idealism of industry. Although great risks
have to be taken now, there is reason to expect that they will also someday
have correspondingly great results. The establishment of Germany's liberty to
rearm is of primary importance. The fate of the individual plant is immaterial
just now. After overcoming |
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