List of Papers

(Unless otherwise specified, the correspondence is from or to officials in the Department of State.)

GENERAL

THE CONFERENCE FOR THE REDUCTION AND LIMITATION OF ARMAMENTS, GENEVA: 1935 PHASE

I. Meeting of the Special Committee for the Trade in and Private and State Manufacture of Arms and Implements of War, February 14–April 13, 1935

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Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 4 (960) From the American Adviser (tel.)
Probability that the several committees will meet early in February, and that it seems safe for Hugh Wilson, head of U. S. delegation, to arrive in Geneva by February 1.
1
Jan. 15 (962) From the American Adviser (tel.)
Inclination of some delegations to postpone resumption of committee work because of general political negotiations going on elsewhere. Opinion that U. S. delegation should firmly oppose such postponement.
2
Jan. 15 (466) To the American Adviser (tel.)
Instructions to point out to Aghnides, Chief of the Disarmament Section of the League, that the United States does not wish to interfere with any major political negotiations but cannot see why simultaneous work of a purely technical nature at Geneva should have this effect.
3
Jan. 16 (467) To the American Adviser (tel.)
Instructions to clarify situation by frank talk with Anthony Eden, British Representative on League Council.
3
Jan. 17 (964) From the American Adviser (tel.)
Conversation with Eden in which a tentative date for the resumption of committee meetings was set; advice that the French wish to discuss question of trade in arms with Wilson on his way through Paris.
4
Jan. 22 (966) From the American Adviser (tel.)
Résumé of the situation resulting from recent Council meeting, with special reference to background for disarmament and anticipated results of the overwhelming vote for Germany in the Saar.
5
Jan. 25 (65) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
From Wilson: Discussion with Massigli, French Assistant Director of Political and Commercial Affairs, and Aubert, French representative of the Special Committee, in respect to advisability of an immediate treaty on manufacture and traffic in arms, and French assurance of cooperation in reaching such treaty.
6
Jan. 29 (969) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Report on the technical matters considered at Paris and the tentative solutions; request for instructions in order to prepare amendments to draft text prior to opening of Special Committee meeting.
7
Jan. 31 (468) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Inquiry as to changes desired by the French in connection with inspection on the spot for production of civil aviation material.
9
Feb. 1 (970) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Uncertainty as to French position in view of seemingly contradictory positions of civilian and air officials.
9
Feb. 2 (971) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Forthcoming meeting of the Committee on Miscellaneous Provisions (Bourquin Committee) in which the U. S. draft articles and the Soviet proposals for a permanent peace conference will be discussed.
10
Feb. 12 (109) From the American Delegate
Résumé of several conversations with the French on publicity of budget estimates for national defense expenditure.
10
Feb. 14 (975) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Unanimous adoption of U. S. draft as basis for discussion at opening session of Special Committee; policy statements by French, British, and Italian delegates.
12
Feb. 14 (976) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Advice that British policy statement came as a severe shock to the meeting; Aubert’s concern over what he termed a British request for a blank check in regard to German rearmament.
14
Feb. 15 (978) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Conclusion of general discussion of American draft which received general support of the delegates; Soviet delegate’s statement that any convention controlling the manufacture and trade in arms had little value except as part of a general disarmament convention.
15
Feb. 17 (979) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Belief that there is little chance of change in British position; desire of British and French delegates to avoid impression of a head-on collision between France and England.
16
Feb. 18 (980) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Postponement by Bourquin Committee of discussion of Soviet proposal for a permanent peace conference until the American draft (chapter 4) has been studied.
17
Feb. 20 (983) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Debate in Manufactures Committee on chapter 2 of U. S. draft, in which French and British conceptions of advance publicity were discussed, while the Italian delegate reiterated his country’s position on buying arms from nonbelligerents.
17
Feb. 20 (984) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Request for Department’s observations on despatch No. 109, February 12; Ruspoli’s suggestion concerning purchase of arms from nonbelligerents.
18
Feb. 21 (985) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Suggestion that article 33 of the 1925 Arms Traffic Convention be considered in connection with Ruspoli’s suggestion.
18
Feb. 21 (986) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Soviet delegate’s reservation, in the Bourquin Committee, of opinion with respect to the establishment of a permanent disarmament commission until importance of the objects to be referred to it should be established.
19
Feb. 22 (987) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Proposals by Soviet and British delegates for amendments to chapters 2 and 3 of the U. S. draft.
19
Feb. 22 (988) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Termination of preliminary general review except for discussion on “control”; fear of inevitability of French-British head-on collision in detailed discussion of chapters 2 and 4 in subcommittee on manufacture; intention to defend U. S. draft vigorously.
20
Feb. 23 (989) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Tentative text of a suggested amendment of article 7, subheads A and B.
21
Feb. 24 (990) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Proposed redraft of two paragraphs of article 30 concerning inspection on the spot, and opinion that early presentation of amendment would serve a useful purpose.
21
Feb. 25 (472) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Instructions regarding British, Italian, and Soviet proposals, and approval of amendment to article 30.
22
Feb. 26 (473) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Suggested amendment to article 2 of draft on shipment of arms and implements of war to belligerents.
24
Feb. 26 (992) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Firm stand of the British on limited publicity.
24
Feb. 26 (993) From the American Delegate (tel.)
French thesis of automatic and permanent control, stressing importance of adequate publicity and of control on the spot, and British vigorous arguments against any conception of inspection on the spot; general support of draft by Polish, Soviet, Czech, Spanish, and Chinese delegates.
25
Feb. 27 (994) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Advisability of U. S. support of a British proposal on prohibition of government credits for export of arms.
26
Feb. 28 (475) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Authorization to follow best judgment on matter of British proposal.
27
Feb. 28 Memorandum by the American Delegate
Conversation with the Japanese Consul General, who objected to equal treatment of state and private manufacture of arms and to inspection on the spot, and who suggested a regional agreement with the United States.
27
Mar. 2 (40) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Request for analysis of motives for British attitude toward important elements of U. S. draft.
29
Mar. 5 (91) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Simon’s explanation of British position on inspection on the spot, and indication that modification of that position is unlikely under present circumstances.
29
Mar. 5 (1000) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Opposition to Italian proposal to add two articles of Washington Treaty to chapters 2 and 3 of draft.
30
Mar. 7 (480) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Opinion that British objections to inspection on the spot appear to be based on false assumptions, and inquiry as to whether British delegation thoroughly understands scope of inspection proposal.
31
Mar. 7 (482) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Instructions on rearrangement of categories IV and V, and approval of position on Washington Treaty articles.
31
Mar. 8 (1003) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Résumé of a conversation with British delegation members indicating fundamental reasons for the British stand on inspection.
32
Mar. 9 From President Roosevelt
Comments on Delegate’s No. 1003 of March 8.
33
Mar. 13 (1006) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Debate in Technical Committee on rearrangement of categories I, II, and III of draft.
33
Mar. 19 (1017) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Strong French representations at London in effort to secure support for the treaty of limited objectives, but failure to alter British viewpoint.
34
Mar. 20 (122) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Summary of a conversation with Eden, who felt there was no chance of any change in British position on inspection; his personal view, however, that a compromise was possible “in some such scheme as the mandate idea”.
34
Mar. 21 (1019) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Request for instructions as to continuation of arms discussion in view of forthcoming League Council meeting on the German situation.
35
Mar. 21 (1020) From the American Delegate (tel.)
French delegate’s opinion that naval obligations will cease after 1936 and that Germany and Japan will be free to build as they please; his belief in the efficacy of advance notice of construction to the Permanent Disarmament Commission as a brake upon a naval race.
36
Mar. 22 (488) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Authorization to acquiesce in, but not to propose adjournment if it becomes evident that no useful purpose can be served by continuing negotiations.
37
Mar. 27 (1026) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Support of U. S. draft by 14 states; British willingness to have automatic and permanent supervision with investigation on the spot in the event of a general convention of limitation; Swiss suggestion of a compromise.
37
Mar. 27 (1027) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Information of approaching conclusion of first reading of text, and request for instructions on further procedure.
38
Mar. 28 (490) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Instructions concerning preparation of text for the second reading, and continuation of committee work.
39
Mar. 29 (1028) From the American Delegate (tel.)
French suggestion concerning the control system, and U. S. delegate’s view that suggestion is contrary to the fundamental principle of U. S. draft.
39
Mar. 29 (492) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Instructions to inform French delegate that Navy Department is favorable in principle to the idea of advance notice of naval construction.
40
Mar. 29 (1029) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Discussion in the Legal Committee of Italian and U. S. amendments relative to suspension of provisions of convention in time of war.
40
Mar. 30 (493) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Approval of position taken as reported in No. 1028, March 29.
41
Mar. 30 (494) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Instructions relative to maintenance of the provisions of the convention in time of war.
41
Apr. 3 (158) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that British Government is sympathetic toward French proposal for advance notice of naval construction, but believes that the matter should be postponed for further discussion in naval conference.
42
Apr. 5 From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Opinion that the United States should conform to the British attitude with respect to the French proposal for advance notice of naval construction. British desire for some assurance as to U. S. policy in regard to a 14-inch gun limitation for battleships.
42
Apr. 6 (1347) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Account of Stanhope’s statement in the House of Lords as to the British position at Geneva.
44
Apr. 10 (1034) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Information that the Committee is preparing a draft text which represents the views of the majority and does not depart fundamentally from the U. S. thesis; association of the Japanese with British attitude on quantitative publicity and inspection on the spot.
46
Apr. 13 (1035) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Adoption of the draft report by the Committee in Plenary Session, and postponement of the second reading until the governments have had an opportunity to study the proposals.
46

II. First Reading of Text Prepared by the United States (November 20, 1934)

[Page XVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Apr. 15 (112) From the American Delegate
Adjournment of the Committee after adoption of report of the first reading of the U. S. draft. Analysis of the Committee’s work and its relation to events of major political importance in Europe.
48
Apr. 20 (114) From the American Delegate
Summary of conversations with Sir John Simon, Paul-Boncour, and Komarnicki, Chief of Polish delegation; opinion that the United States should seek solution of fundamental differences with the French and British before resumption of disarmament meetings.
51
Apr. 30 (101) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that U. S. willingness to consider reduction of gun calibers on battleships to 14 inches is conditional on negotiation of a general naval settlement acceptable to the United States; maintenance of opposition to reduction in size of capital ships.
53
June 19 (1045) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Probability of a meeting of the Bureau of the Disarmament Conference in September at which the future course of Conference work will be determined.
54
June 28 (294) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
From Hugh Wilson: Confirmation by Henderson, President of the Conference, of Bureau meeting in September, probably followed by a General Commission meeting 10 days later.
55
June 28 (295) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
From Hugh Wilson: Stanhope’s suggestion that the British may agree to apply the principle of full publicity on numbers and inspection on the spot pari passu with limitation of armament.
55
June 29 (497) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Information that Department does not wish to compromise on essential points of draft until there is definite reason to believe that U. S. concessions would result in general acceptance of the convention in the immediate future.
57
July 16 (119) From the American Delegate
Discussion of the British suggestion with other delegation members, analysis of the plan in the light of European developments, and suggestion that judgment be withheld for the present.
57
Aug. 1 (121) From the American Delegate
Indications that the Bureau will meet in September.
61
Aug. 2 To the American Delegate
Reiteration of Department’s position as expressed in No. 497, June 29, and instructions to express no definite opinion on the British suggestion for the present.
61

III. Closing of the Geneva Office of the American Delegation

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Sept. 2 (1054) From the American Delegate (tel.)
Information concerning postponement of Bureau meeting; suggestion that, if Department intends to close delegation office, the present time would be most opportune.
62
Sept. 3 (500) To the American Delegate (tel.)
Instructions to release quarters presently occupied by the delegation and to obtain quarters in the building occupied by the Consulate.
63

LONDON NAVAL CONFERENCE, 1935

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Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 8 Memorandum of Meeting in the Office of the Secretary of State With Returned Members of the American Naval Delegation
Summary and analysis of the developments during the preliminary naval conversations in London by Norman Davis, head of the U. S. naval delegation, and discussion of U. S. future naval policy.
64
Mar. 19 (121) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Office understanding that Japan hopes for a naval conference as early as June, and belief that latest German declaration on armament strength may stiffen Japanese attitude.
66
Mar. 26 (49) To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Request for comment on a report that Japan is pressing Germany to ask for restoration of naval strength.
67
Mar. 27 (64) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Indications that the Japanese will insist upon the holding of a conference and that they are intransigent in their stand for parity; lack of information on the German angle.
68
May 31 (1333) From the Ambassador in Japan
Observations on a new trend in Japan’s naval policy, but indication of unchanged position with regard to naval parity.
68
June 22 (250) From the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (tel.)
Advice that the British Ambassador informed Litvinov officially of his Government’s intention to call a general naval conference and that the Soviet Government would be invited.
71
June 24 (149) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Request for confirmation of report that the British Government intends to call a general naval conference and to invite the Soviet Government.
71
June 26 (288) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British intention to hold a 5-power naval conference, to be preceded by a series of bilateral conversations and possibly by a European naval conference.
71
June 27 (155) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Opinion that inclusion in any conference called under the Washington or London treaties of one or more non-contracting states would call for prior discussion with the parties to the present naval treaties.
73
July 4 (337) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Information from Italian official that Italy would favor a naval accord to include France, the United States, Japan, and Great Britain if the latter agreed to keep out of the Ethiopian question.
74
July 8 (304) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
News report that Germany has communicated details of her naval program direct to the signatories to the Washington and London treaties; inquiry whether the Department has received this information from Germany.
75
July 8 (169) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information that the German construction program is being mailed from American Embassy in Berlin.
76
July 9 (309) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Conversation with Foreign Minister relative to U. S.-British understanding of December 1934 that the U. S. and British Governments would keep each other closely informed on naval matters, especially on any contemplated changes.
76
July 12 (135) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Details of the German construction program, as published in the press; German official’s opinion that Japan’s objection to German participation in the next naval conference was based on racial reasons.
77
July 13 (182) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to emphasize in next interview with Foreign Minister the interrelationship of present European discussions with the general naval problem.
78
July 13 (106) To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Inquiry as to confirmation of information that racial reasons account for Japan’s opposition to German participation in the naval conference.
79
July 15 (149) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Indication of reasons for Japanese opposition to German participation; advice that there is no confirmation as to the racial factor.
79
July 18 (154) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Conversation with the Foreign Minister, who said that unless there was some definite prospect of concluding a naval treaty this year he thought it much better to leave matters in abeyance.
79
July 23 (193) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Request for analysis and comment on the announcement made in the House of Commons by the First Lord of the Admiralty regarding the abandonment of the ratio method of naval limitation, as the announcement seems not to be in conformity with understanding of December 1934.
80
July 25 (333) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information from an Admiralty official that the First Lord’s statement was intended to be in conformity with the previous understanding, and not to indicate any change in British naval policy.
81
July 29 (341) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Conversation with the Foreign Secretary concerning desirability of full interchange of information, and U. S. interest in receiving data on the proposed German naval program up to 1942; British memorandum (text printed) giving résumé of naval situation and British position.
82
Aug. 7 Memorandum by Mr. Noel H. Field of the Division of Western European Affairs
Meeting of officials of the State and Navy Departments at the request of Norman Davis with a view to clearing up the principal differences with the British before entering a naval conference.
85
Aug. 9 (359) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Copy of a British memorandum (text printed) handed to French and Italian representatives, outlining specific considerations which the British wish to raise in bilateral conversations prior to a general naval conference.
87
Aug. 10 (361) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that a copy of the British memorandum was also given to the Japanese Chargé and that Foreign Office asked both the U. S. and Japanese Chargés to regard contents as confidential between Governments.
90
Aug. 14 (211) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to leave at Foreign Office a memorandum indicating certain divergencies of U. S. and British views, and suggesting informal conversations prior to naval conference in order to reach more nearly a community of views.
(Footnote: Memorandum dated August 17 left at Foreign Office.)
91
Aug. 16 (374) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Ambiguous Foreign Office replies to inquiries of press correspondents concerning British issuance of invitations to a London naval conference in October.
92
Aug. 16 (215) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Secretary’s reply to inquiries at press conference that no invitation has been received from the British Government for an informal conference in October.
93
Aug. 17 (377) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Office explanation of situation reported in telegram No. 374, August 16, and outline of scope of proposed multilateral naval discussions in October.
93
Aug. 17 (216) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain whether the British, in seeking qualitative without quantitative limitation, have obtained information to the effect that the Japanese have modified their position as expressed in 1934.
94
Aug. 19 (336) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French Ambassador’s advice that France has made a reply to the British memorandum of August 2; instructions to seek further information from Foreign Office.
94
Aug. 20 (2104) From the Chargé in France
Copy of the French reply, dated August 14 (text printed), to the British memorandum of August 2.
95
Aug. 21 (386) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Résumé of a discussion with Craigie of U. S. memorandum based on Department’s No. 211, August 14; and British favorable attitude in regard to an informal exchange of views with the U. S. Embassy.
97
Aug. 22 (722) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Summary of a conversation with French officials concerning their viewpoint on naval questions with reference to their reply to the British memorandum.
99
Aug. 26 (402) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Office receipt of a negative Japanese note in regard to the British memorandum; British inquiry whether U. S. memorandum may be made available to Japan, France, and the press.
99
Aug. 26 (229) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Reasons why Department considers it inadvisable to give text of U. S. memorandum to the press or to other governments.
100
Aug. 27 (406) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Opinion that Japanese aide-mémoire and French failure to set date for bilateral conversations add to the unreality of British plans for holding an other than pro forma naval conference.
101
Undated From the Japanese Embassy in the United Kingdom to the British Foreign Office
Aide-mémoire relative to the British memorandum of August 2, indicating Japan’s unchanged position on naval limitation.
102
Aug. 27 (407) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Report on outline of Department’s No. 229 of August 26 to Foreign Office; résumé of attitudes of other Governments as to publicity of their replies to British memorandum. Advice that U. S. memorandum will be regarded by the British as a “précis of conversation” and will not be publicized.
102
Aug. 27 (230) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Indication that Chargé’s report in telegram No. 407 is eminently satisfactory.
103
Aug. 28 (348) To the Chargé in France (tel.)
Substance of conversation with member of the French Embassy, who inquired as to U. S. views on the present naval situation.
103
Aug. 29 (352) To the Chargé in France (tel.)
Instructions for discussing subject matter of Department’s No. 348 of August 28 with Foreign Office.
105
Aug. 30 (1280) From the Chargé in Italy
Copy of the Italian reply, dated August 27 (text printed), to the British memorandum of August 2.
105
Sept. 12 (435) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British aide-mémoire on naval disarmament (text printed), also to be regarded as a précis of conversation with Craigie.
107
Sept. 12 (439) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Résumé of the conversation with Craigie when he transmitted the aide-mémoire; his observation that this year offers the last occasion for holding a naval conference under existing naval treaties.
109
Sept. 14 Memorandum of Conversation, by Mr. Noel H. Field of the Division of Western European Affairs
Discussion of the latest British suggestions on naval disarmament by officials of the State and Navy Departments, and decision that the Navy Department would prepare instructions for the Naval Attaché in London as basis for the informal conversations with the British Admiralty.
110
Sept. 17 Memorandum by Mr. Noel H. Field of the Division of Western European Affairs
Conversation with Norman Davis, who gave the substance of a talk he had had with President Roosevelt on the naval situation.
112
Sept. 19 (261) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Authorization to enter into informal discussions with the British; instructions from State and Navy Departments.
113
Sept. 27 (475) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
First exchange of views; Foreign Office denial of press reports indicating British intention to invoke the escalator clause.
115
Sept. 27 (478) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Résumé of informal discussions on capital ships.
116
Sept. 27 (271) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Remarks made at press conference summarizing developments in the naval situation to date.
118
Sept. 28 (482) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Supplementary information on discussions on capital ships.
119
Sept. 30 (277) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Opinion that President Roosevelt’s proposal for a 20% tonnage reduction is not a subject for discussion at the present stage. Inquiry in connection with 14-inch guns on capital ships.
119
Oct. 1 (485) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Account of further discussions with the British on naval limitation.
120
Oct. 1 (486) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that no appointment has been made for further conversations pending instructions. Comments in reply to Department’s No. 277, September 30.
122
Oct. 10 (508) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Résumé of discussion with Craigie on capital ships; Italian intention to send delegates for bilateral talks with the British.
123
Oct. 11 (511) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information that the Japanese Ambassador would not return to London in time to head the Japanese delegation at a naval conference if Japan accepted the invitation; Craigie’s statement pertaining to the British position on qualitative and quantitative limitation.
125
Oct. 14 (300) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Analysis and conclusive statement, prepared by the Navy Department (text printed), based on the reports of the London conversations; instructions to present substance in direct terms to the British as final U. S. position.
125
Oct. 16 (303) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
From Navy Department: Clarification of a sentence in No. 300, October 14, in reply to inquiry.
127
Oct. 17 (522) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British satisfaction at receiving statement based on Department’s No. 300 of October 14; information that précis of conversation was left and that reply will be given shortly.
127
Oct. 18 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, who brought a copy of a Japanese statement to the British Government on naval disarmament (text printed).
128
Oct. 24 (535) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Receipt of official invitation from British Government (excerpt printed) to a general naval conference in December; information that invitations were issued to all the treaty powers.
129
Oct. 24 (313) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to inform the British Government of U. S. acceptance of the invitation.
130
Oct. 24 (315) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to inform the British that U. S. acceptance of invitation is based on the assumption that the British agreed to U. S. position set forth in Department’s No. 300 of October 14, and to the principle of naval parity as between the United States and the British Empire.
130
Oct. 25 (536) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Intention to answer British invitation by a formal note and to convey orally the substance of Department’s 315, October 24.
130
Oct. 25 (316) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to indicate Department’s desire to clarify the situation with regard to the bases of agreement in No. 300, October 14, and No. 315, October 24, before formal acceptance of invitation.
131
Oct. 25 (317) From President Roosevelt to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Request for information regarding the plan for representation of each nation at the Naval Conference solely by its Ambassador in London, and inquiry as to British agreement to the stipulations in Nos. 300, October 14, and 315, October 24, prior to U. S. acceptance.
131
Oct. 28 (541) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British précis of conversation (text printed) in reply to U. S. précis based on Department’s No. 300, October 14, and advice of British concurrence in the principle of parity.
132
Oct. 28 (542) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Personal for the President: Account of British views on the projected Naval Conference.
134
Nov. 1 (325) From President Roosevelt to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Opinion that a special delegation should be sent to the Conference, and that greatest possible effort should be made to negotiate a new naval treaty.
136
Nov. 1 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Statement (text printed) read to the British Ambassador inquiring whether the British understand that Japan will again put forth a claim for “a common upper limit”.
138
Nov. 5 (553) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Personal for the President: Further considerations in connection with forthcoming Conference; unfavorable attitude toward a special mission, but desire for Admiral Standley’s appointment as a delegate.
139
Nov. 6 (555) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British inquiry (1) if United States would concur in issuance of an invitation to League of Nations to send an observer to the Conference; (2) if U. S. formal acceptance may be expected soon.
142
Nov. 6 (327) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Nonobjection to a League observer; authorization to transmit U. S. formal acceptance of invitation to the Conference.
142
Undated From the British Embassy
Reply to U. S. inquiry of November 1 indicating expected Japanese attitude at forthcoming Conference, and British attitude toward Japanese proposals.
143
Nov. 18 (343) From President Roosevelt to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Decision, based on technical and political difficulties involved, in favor of a special delegation, with same personnel as in the conversations of 1934 except for addition of Under Secretary Phillips.
143
Nov. 23 Memorandum by Mr. Noel H. Field of the Division of Western European Affairs of a Meeting Held November 19, 1935, at the Executive Office of the White House
(Present: President Roosevelt, Norman Davis, and others.) Discussion of a memorandum read by Norman Davis (text printed) summarizing naval situation and main points of U. S. position; President’s approval of individual points, with certain comments and exceptions.
144
Nov. 26 To the Chairman of the American Delegation to the London Naval Conference
Memorandum (text printed) setting forth general position to be adopted by U. S. delegation at the London Conference.
150
Dec. 6 (381) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information from Tokyo that Foreign Office denied press reports that the Japanese delegates would make proposals concerning the Four Power Treaty and fortifications in the Pacific.
156
Dec. 8 Memorandum of Conversation at the Admiralty, London, Between Messrs. Norman H. Davis, William Phillips, and Admiral Standley for the United States, and Viscount Monsell, Admiral Sir Ernie Chatfield, and Mr. R. L. Craigie for the British Government
Discussion of battleship and cruiser programs; reference to difficulties facing the Conference, particularly the Japanese attitude.
156
Dec. 9 (6) From the Chairman of the American Delegation (tel.)
Summary of the conversation with the British on December 8.
158
Dec. 9 (7) From the Chairman of the American Delegation (tel.)
Opening of the Conference.
159
Dec. 10 (235) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Indication that German attitude toward the Conference is one of reserve. Account of an incident which is further evidence of German-Japanese entente. Possibility of war between Germany and Russia.
159
Dec. 12 (2529) From the Ambassador in Germany
Summary of press comment in Germany on the Conference; indications of official German disinterestedness in the Conference.
160
Dec. 17 (24) From the Chairman of the American Delegation (tel.)
Official denial of a press report that Japan would reject a 20% naval reduction because of apprehension over a possible U. S. attack, and information that Japanese delegation would also deny report.
161

THE ANGLO-GERMAN NAVAL AGREEMENT, JUNE 18, 1935

[Page XXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 (Note: Résumé of steps leading to the Anglo-German conversations of June 4–22 which culminated in exchange of notes, June 18.) 162
May 7 (95) To the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (tel.)
Opinion, in answer to an inquiry, that the regional discussion of German naval rearmament as now planned, is most appropriate method of dealing with the problem.
162
June 7 (259) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Office aide-mémoire (text printed) handed to French, Japanese, and Italian Embassies indicating details of a German offer and preliminary acceptance by the British.
163
June 11 (135) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Aide-mémoire for the Foreign Office (substance printed) commenting on the Anglo-German conversations and preliminary accord, and expressing hope for future general agreement among the naval powers.
164
June 18 (511) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French reply to the British aide-mémoire, indicating objections to terms of the preliminary Anglo-German understanding, and inquiring whether the British have considered certain situations which may arise.
165
June 19 (515) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Advice that French press comment has shown indignation toward the British; opinions of a French official as to complications that will arise as result of the British action. Request for Department’s reaction to the situation.
166
June 20 (239) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Reference to Department’s No. 135, June 11, as containing U. S. general attitude, and comment that no position has been taken as to the merits of the agreement itself.
167
June 28 (683) From the Ambassador in the Soviet Union
Soviet fear over effect of Anglo-German accord in both Europe and the Far East, and speculation as to possible Anglo-Japanese secret understanding.
168

ANALYSES BY AMERICAN DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS OF POLITICAL EVENTS IN EUROPE OF SPECIAL INTEREST TO THE UNITED STATES IN CONNECTION WITH THE MAINTENANCE OF PEACE

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 10 (14215) Report by the Acting Military Attaché in Italy
Excerpt from the Italian official press communiqué of the Italo-French understanding on a proposed Danubian accord.
(Footnote: Information that communiqué was issued at conclusion of the Laval-Mussolini conversations at Rome, January 3–7.)
170
Jan. 11 (557) From the Ambassador in Poland
Foreign Minister Beck’s enthusiasm regarding the proposed Danubian accord as an assurance of future peace in Central Europe, but indication that Poland’s participation would be dependent upon the participation of Hungary.
171
Jan. 16 (46) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Summary of information regarding the Laval-Mussolini conversations.
173
Jan. 19 (354) From the Chargé in the Soviet Union
Soviet fear that the basis for the Franco-Soviet rapprochement has been fundamentally altered by Laval’s tactics, and apprehension over possible concessions to Germany leading to an anti-Soviet alignment.
176
Jan. 25 (11) From the Chargé in Germany (tel.)
Opinion that Germany’s elation over Saar returns has stiffened her attitude toward the Danubian pact and an arms limitation pact, and that a favorable reply to French note of January 16 concerning an Eastern pact is doubtful.
178
[Page XXVI]

POLITICAL EVENTS IN EUROPE

[Page XXVII] [Page XXVIII] [Page XXIX] [Page XXX]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 28 (524) From the Minister in Greece
Statement of the Council of the Balkan Entente (text printed) expressing satisfaction over the Franco-Italian agreement on a Danubian accord.
179
Jan. 29 (584) From the Ambassador in Poland
Beck’s explanation of Poland’s negative attitude toward the Eastern Locarno Pact, and opposition to German rearmament.
180
Jan. 30 Memorandum by the Ambassador in France
Conversation with Laval regarding the topics he expects to discuss in London; his desire for U. S. participation in a general disarmament conference once the continental status quo had been established.
182
Jan. 30 (38) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Conversation with Suvich, Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, who said that hope for European peace seemed short-lived if Germany did not agree to armament limitation and did not sign the Austrian and Eastern Locarno treaties; his hope for success of Anglo-French London conversations.
185
Feb. 2 (45) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Conversation with Mussolini, whose remarks indicated mental acceptance of the inevitability of a conflict with Germany, and his opinion that an Anglo-French agreement in London might postpone a war; his inquiry as to U. S. attitude toward Germany.
188
Feb. 5 Memorandum by the Chargé in the United Kingdom
Outline by Foreign Secretary Sir John Simon of the background of the understandings and recommendations embodied in the communiqué issued February 3, following the Anglo-French conversations; his opinion that a U. S. statement of approval would carry great weight in a troubled world.
188
Feb. 7 (25) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Message for Sir John Simon (text printed) indicating reasons for not making a public statement.
192
Feb. 28 (412) From the Chargé in the Soviet Union
Soviet attitude toward the German reply to the Franco-British proposals; their eagerness to effect the conclusion of an Eastern pact, embodying mutual assistance.
(Footnote: Citation to text of German reply.)
193
Mar. 5 Memorandum by the Chargé in the United Kingdom
Simon’s comments on Mussolini’s swing to an anti-German viewpoint, on the proposed “Air Locarno”, the Eastern European pact, and other European topics.
194
Mar. 8 (625) From the Ambassador in Poland
Résumé of a conversation with Beck regarding the proposed Eastern Locarno Pact.
197
Mar. 15 (313 Diplo.) From the Chargé in Estonia
Advice concerning démarches made at Paris and London by the Estonian, Latvian, and Lithuanian Ministers indicating their interest in a pact for Eastern Europe as part of the European system of peace pacts now under consideration.
198
Mar. 20 (126) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Simon’s view of the European situation after announcement of the German decree of March 16 reestablishing compulsory military service; and explanation of the British unilateral decision to enter into exploratory conversations with Germany.
200
Mar. 21 (1021) From the Acting Chairman of the American Delegation to the Disarmament Conference (tel.)
Discussion with the Secretary General of the League and others regarding the effect of Germany’s decree on the European situation.
202
Mar. 22 (63) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to thank Sir John Simon for his frank discussion of the European situation. Excerpts from Secretary’s press conference (text printed).
204
Mar. 22 (640) From the Ambassador in Poland
Conversation with Beck, who said that Poland would make a statement relative to Germany’s announcement of compulsory military service, stressing the grave consequences of the German action.
205
Mar. 26 (56) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Account of British-German conversations, during which all points of the British-French communiqué of February 3 were discussed; British attitude as to material results of conversations.
208
Mar. 28 (590) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Analysis of trends and conditions regarding the European situation; suggestion as to prevention of war.
209
Mar. 31 (174) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Information regarding the conversations between Hitler and Sir John Simon on rearmament and Austrian independence, revealed by Hitler to diplomatic representatives of Belgium, France, and Italy.
211
Apr. 1 (1022) From the Ambassador in Italy
Analysis of European situation on the eve of the Stresa Conference (to be held April 11–14).
212
Apr. 2 (191) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Simon’s impressions of Hitler, as revealed to the Foreign Minister on his return trip from the Berlin conversations, and his opinion that Hitler seemed more concerned with the Soviet menace than with affairs of Western Europe.
216
Apr. 4 (660) From the Ambassador in Poland
Report on discussions with diplomatic representatives of Rumania, France, Czechoslovakia, and the Soviet Union regarding Polish foreign policy.
217
Apr. 5 (661) From the Ambassador in Poland
Information from the Secretary of the British Embassy concerning Eden’s conversations with Beck and Marshal Pilsudski on April 2 and 3; Beck’s statement that the nonaggression treaties with Germany and the Soviet Union are the foundations of Poland’s foreign policy.
222
Apr. 6 (142) From the Minister in Czechoslovakia
Advice that Eden’s conversations with Beneš brought entire agreement on the four points of the London declaration of February 3; official Czech reaction to British visits of Simon and Eden to Berlin, and of Eden to Moscow, Warsaw, and Prague.
225
Apr. 8 (1351) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Publication of communiqués on Eden’s visits to Warsaw and Prague (texts printed); advice that the Cabinet is meeting to consider Simon’s and Eden’s reports of their recent trips, and to determine policy for the Stresa Conference, scheduled for April 11.
228
Apr. 8 (188) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Résumé of a conversation with Suvich regarding the position Italy intends to take at Stresa.
229
Apr. 9 Memorandum by the Third Secretary of Legation in Latvia
Analysis of the attitude of the Baltic States toward the proposed Eastern Locarno Pact.
232
Apr. 9 (138) From the Chargé in the Soviet Union (tel.)
Information that Litvinov has inquired as to Estonian and Latvian willingness to enter into a mutual assistance pact with the Soviet Union, France, Czechoslovakia, and Lithuania.
240
Apr. 13 (201) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Report on discussions at the Stresa Conference regarding French appeal to the League against Germany’s breach of the Versailles Treaty, the Austrian situation, and the Eastern and Western Air pacts.
240
Apr. 15 Memorandum by the Chargé in Estonia
Conversation with the Assistant Foreign Minister concerning recent Soviet overtures to Estonia for conclusion of a mutual assistance pact.
241
Apr. 16 (1931) From the Ambassador in Germany
Comments on German attitude following the Stresa Conference, and publication of communiqué and press comment (excerpts printed) in regard to the mutual assistance clause in proposed Eastern pact; possibility of Germany’s return to the League.
244
Apr. 17 (1378) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Résumé of Prime Minister’s report to the House of Commons on the Stresa Conference, and indication that no new British commitments had been made.
247
Apr. 17 (113) From the Acting Chairman of the American Delegation to the Disarmament Conference
Memorandum of a conversation with Sir John Simon (text printed) on the present European situation, and indication of British policy to bring Germany back into the concert of nations.
248
Apr. 18 (151) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report of developments in the Eighty-fifth session of the League Council (April 15–17), in which solidarity between Great Britain, France, and Italy was apparent, and steps were considered to check the German menace.
254
Apr. 18 (1039) From the Acting Chairman of the American Delegation to the Disarmament Conference (tel.)
Comments on diplomatic cross currents during Council meetings; Great Britain’s efforts for bringing Germany into the community of nations, while simultaneously bilateral mutual assistance pacts are being negotiated.
259
Apr. 18 (1053) From the Ambassador in Italy
Analysis of the topics discussed at the Stresa Conference.
260
Apr. 20 From the Acting Chairman of the American Delegation to the Disarmament Conference
Analysis of the developments in Europe following the Stresa and Council meetings, and their vital effect on the problem of disarmament.
265
May 4 (177) From the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (tel.)
Discussion with Litvinov, who said that the Franco-Soviet mutual assistance agreement (signed May 2, 1935) had produced a new constellation in European politics and constituted a warning to Germany that aggression would be met by force.
270
May 9 To the Ambassador in Turkey
Opinion that suggestion made in despatch No. 590, March 28, would be doomed to failure and might aggravate the European situation.
272
May 10 Memorandum by the Minister in Latvia
French Minister’s viewpoint that Germany’s aim is the conquest of Europe; his comments on French policy and reasons for conclusion of the French-Soviet treaty.
273
May 14 Memorandum by the Minister in Latvia
Conversation with the Secretary General of the Foreign Ministry on questions of general security for Eastern Europe.
274
May 15 (100) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Conversation with the Foreign Minister regarding German attitude toward the Eastern pact, the League of Nations, and other points.
277
May 15 (196) From the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (tel.)
Conversation with Laval, who revealed the highlights of his discussion with Stalin in regard to the European situation and Franco-Soviet relations.
278
May 18 (1987) From the Ambassador in Germany
Analysis of German foreign policy, and speculations as to a new policy statement by Hitler in his forthcoming speech to the Reichstag on May 21.
280
May 29 (214) From the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (tel.)
Résumé of several conversations with Litvinov on the Italo-Ethiopian dispute in relation to Austrian independence, the Danubian pact, Nazi penetration into Czechoslovakia, and the Polish attitude toward the Eastern pact.
283
June 4 (116) From the Acting Chairman of the American Delegation to the Disarmament Conference
Report on discussions during the first plenary session of the Committee of Thirteen relative to Germany’s breach of the Military Clauses of the Versailles Treaty.
285
June 6 (2035) From the Ambassador in Germany
Transmittal of a copy of Foreign Office memorandum to the Locarno Powers which seeks to establish that the Franco-Soviet treaty is at variance with the provisions of the Locarno Pact; summary of French and German press comments.
289
June 6 (2036) From the Ambassador in Germany
Translation of a memorandum (text printed) of the German views as to the nature of an acceptable Eastern pact, which it is understood was submitted to Sir John Simon during his Berlin visit and known to the other interested powers.
290
June 17 (117) From the Acting Chairman of the American Delegation to the Disarmament Conference
Assessment of the developments of the European situation since the first of the year, and conclusions as to possible future trends.
291
July 11 Memorandum by the Chargé in Latvia
Conversation with Mr. Munters, Secretary General of the Foreign Ministry, as to the present status of negotiations concerning the Eastern pact, effects of the Anglo-German Naval Agreement, and other European matters.
296
July 16 Memorandum by the Third Secretary of Legation in Latvia
Conversation with a Polish Legation official regarding a mutual assistance pact between Latvia and the Soviet Union.
299
July 18 Memorandum by the Chargé in Latvia
Analysis of recent developments concerning an Eastern European security pact.
300
Aug. 13 (2215) From the Ambassador in Germany
British informal approach to the German Government with view to furthering conclusion of an Eastern pact; information in connection with despatch No. 2035, June 6.
306
Aug. 27 (2250) From the Ambassador in Germany
German reply to British proposal postponing decision on Eastern pact until “quieter times” had come; Foreign Office official’s comments as to real reasons for postponement.
308
Nov. 13 (968) From the Chargé in Latvia
Attitude of Munters toward a larger political grouping of states in the zone between the U. S. S. R. and Germany in connection with the conclusion of an Eastern European security pact.
309

UNFAVORABLE ATTITUDE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE TO AID BY AGENCIES OF THE UNITED STATES IN FINANCING SALES OF WAR MATERIALS TO FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Feb. 14 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Telephone conversations with official of the Export-Import Bank concerning the interpretation of the President’s Proclamation of May 28, 1934, in connection with financing flour shipments to Bolivia; Department’s opposition to such financing because of possible political effects.
311
[Page XXXI]

SALE OF WAR MATERIALS

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Feb. 21 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Explanation to an official of the Boeing Aircraft Co. of the Department’s attitude toward financing by the Export-Import Bank of the sale of airplanes to the Greek Government.
312
Mar. 5 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Suggestion for systematizing relations between Export-Import Bank and Department in respect to the possible financing of the exportation of articles which are not clearly munitions of war.
313
Aug. 8 Memorandum by the Acting Chief of the Division of Current Information of Press Conference of the Secretary of State
Résumé of Secretary’s answers to questions pertaining to refusal by Export-Import Bank to finance cotton shipments to Italy, and other questions connected with general policy on the sale of war materials.
314

COOPERATION WITH THE SENATE COMMITTEE INVESTIGATING THE MUNITIONS INDUSTRY (NYE COMMITTEE) IN PREPARATION OF LEGISLATION WITH RESPECT TO NEUTRALITY AND FOR THE CONTROL OF TRAFFIC IN ARMS

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Feb. 20 From the Chairman of the Special Committee of the Senate Investigating the Munitions Industry to Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Committee’s hope that the Department will prepare a memorandum covering problems which will be raised by the adoption of any international convention for the control of arms.
316
Feb. 23 Memorandum by President Roosevelt for the Secretary of State
Desire for consultation with the Secretary on advisability of a message to Congress on war profits and kindred subjects.
316
Mar. 13 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Account of presentation to the Nye Committee of a memorandum such as requested by the Chairman, together with suggested legislation.
317
Mar. 14 Memorandum by the Secretary of State to President Roosevelt
Recommendation that no message on arms traffic be sent to Congress at this time; recommendations also on possible methods for dealing with the evils of arms traffic, and on cooperation with the Nye Committee.
318
Mar. 14 Memorandum by the Secretary of State to President Roosevelt
Discussion of and reasons for unfavorable attitude toward certain proposed legislation to prohibit export trade in arms and implements of war, and to take the profits out of war.
322
Mar. 29 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Conversation with Senator Nye and Mr. Raushenbush, secretary of the Nye Committee, who stated that the Committee would issue a preliminary report on April 1, and outlined briefly its contents.
323
[Page XXXII]

MUNITIONS INDUSTRY INVESTIGATION

[Page XXXIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Mar. 30 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Information telephoned to Mr. Raushenbush that the Senate Foreign Relations Committee is irritated over activities of the Nye Committee relative to neutrality legislation, feeling that this subject comes under their own jurisdiction.
324
Apr. 2 Memorandum by the Legal Adviser
Draft text of proposed legislation to preserve the neutrality of the United States.
(Footnote: Information that memorandum was sent to the White House.)
325
Apr. 2 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Advice from Mr. Raushenbush that the Committee’s report of April 1 was not as comprehensive as originally intended due to the attitude of the Foreign Relations Committee.
328
Apr. 10 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Conversation with Mr. Raushenbush on recent developments; his advice that the Committee plans to request the Secretary to confer with it soon.
329
Apr. 11 From the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations
Opinion that the Nye Committee has no authority to act on the subject referred to in article IV of its report of April 1, i.e., the export of munitions and contraband in case of a major war.
330
Apr. 11 Memorandum by the Secretary of State to President Roosevelt
Recapitulation of the various phases of the activities of the Nye Committee, with suggestions for use at next conference with the Committee; submittal of draft bill (text printed) on the control of arms traffic.
331
Apr. 12 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Suggestion to Nye Committee that it might wish to clear up with the Committee on Foreign Relations the question of jurisdiction on neutrality legislation before inviting the Secretary for a conference; Committee’s action on suggestion.
339
May 8 To President Roosevelt
Reference to the draft bill on arms traffic transmitted April 11, and suggestion that the President inform the Nye Committee of his support of the measure in order to expedite action thereon.
341
July 16 To President Roosevelt
Advice that Foreign Relations Committee has appointed a subcommittee to confer with Department on whole subject of neutrality legislation; also that a group of Senators may call on the President soon to request his views.
342
July 29 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Desire of Department to cooperate with the Foreign Relations Committee on neutrality legislation; discussion of complexities of such legislation, and reasons why S. 2998 on control of arms traffic should be passed.
(Footnote: Information that statement was read before the Committee on July 30.)
343
July 31 To the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations
Suggestion of an amendment to section 5 of S. 2998, and transmittal of several copies of a detailed memorandum (text printed) on suggested neutrality legislation.
345
Aug. 29 To President Roosevelt
Views on S. J. Res. 173, pertaining to arms traffic control and restriction of travel of Americans during war; suggestion of a statement (substance printed) which the President may wish to release upon his approval of the measure.
(Footnote: Resolution, approved August 31.)
350
Sept. 3 Memorandum by Mr. Charles W. Yost of the Division of Western European Affairs
Swedish Chargé’s inquiry as to interpretation of the term “implements of war” in the recent neutrality resolution, and his favorable comment on the President’s statement.
(Footnote: Citation to text of statement.)
352
Sept. 13 (562) To the Ambassador in Italy
Transmittal of text of S. J. Res. 173 and of the President’s statement; explanation of bases of measure and possibility that the subjects dealt with will receive further consideration at next session of Congress.
(Footnote: Identic communications to diplomatic representatives in Ethiopia, France, and the United Kingdom; also to the Consul at Geneva and the American Delegate to the Disarmament Conference.)
353
Nov. 21 To Diplomatic and Consular Officers
Explanation of U. S. policy relative to the export of arms, ammunition, and implements of war, and to the duties of U. S. representatives in foreign countries in relation thereto; list of articles enumerated as arms, ammunition, and implements of war in President’s Proclamation of September 25.
(Footnote: Citation to text of proclamation.)
354
Dec. 4 To the Secretary of the Special Committee of the Senate Investigating the Munitions Industry
Suggested amendment (text printed) to section 2 of the Neutrality Act.
356

REPRESENTATIONS BY CERTAIN FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS REGARDING THE SENATE COMMITTEE INVESTIGATING THE MUNITIONS INDUSTRY (NYE COMMITTEE)

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Mar. 18 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
British Embassy’s objection, on grounds of international courtesy, to subpoena by the Nye Committee of certain documents from the Guaranty Trust Co. of New York pertaining to dealings between the bank and the British Government in 1916; explanation of quasi-judicial functions of the Committee, and intention of the President to confer with the Committee soon.
360
Mar. 19 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Conversation with the British Ambassador, who gave his views on the subpoena matter, and was told that the Nye Committee had not yet met with the President.
362
[Page XXXIV]

MUNITIONS INDUSTRY INVESTIGATION

[Page XXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Mar. 20 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Information from Senators Nye and Pope concerning the Committee’s conference with the President, in which he did not refer to the proposed investigation of dealings between former allied governments and American banks during World War, but discussed approvingly other Committee activities.
363
Mar. 20 From the British Ambassador
Willingness to request from Foreign Office any information on the subpoena matter that Department might choose to specify; suggestion, however, that proceeding with investigation without obtaining British Government’s consent would be an act of grave discourtesy.
364
Mar. 21 To the British Ambassador
Expression of surprise at Ambassador’s position; restatement of Department’s position, and review of steps taken by the Secretary to prevent embarrassment to the British Government.
365
Apr. 3 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Conversation with First Secretary of the French Embassy, who wished to reserve a question of principle regarding Nye Committee’s subpoena to Central Hanover Bank to produce papers connected with a loan to France in 1917.
366
Apr. 4 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
British Ambassador’s concern over possible publicizing of records on file with J. P. Morgan & Co. and certain other banks involving the British Government; reassuring remarks of the Secretary.
367
Apr. 8 From the British Ambassador
Protest against proposed investigation of J. P. Morgan correspondence, and request that the Secretary use his good offices to forestall the inquiry.
368
Apr. 9 From the French Ambassador
Confirmation of the reservation of principle made on April 3, and protest against proposed investigation of J. P. Morgan correspondence with the French Government during World War; request for good offices to prevent the inquiry.
369
Apr. 10 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Account of conversation with the French Ambassador upon his delivery of the informal letter of April 9.
370
Apr. 13 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Information given to Under Secretary of the Treasury that the President and the Secretary had made strong but unsuccessful efforts to dissuade the Nye Committee from its desire to examine certain bank documents, although Senator Nye had agreed to hold them in confidence.
370
Apr. 16 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Explanation of U. S. neutrality legislation, in reply to inquiry of French Embassy official, as a reflection of American desire to keep out of any future European war.
371
Apr. 19 To the British Ambassador
Reply to note of April 8, advising that British point of view was presented strongly to members of the Nye Committee, but they felt that examination of the bank correspondence was necessary for the preparation of legislation; explanation of safeguards, however, against publicity.
372

STATUS OF INTERGOVERNMENTAL DEBTS OWED THE UNITED STATES BY REASON OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR

Date and number Subject Page
1935 (Note: Information concerning publication of exchanges of correspondence between United States and various foreign governments with regard to debts owed to United States.) 374
Jan. 15 To the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance
Reasons why the Secretary does not wish to comment on bill S. 142 authorizing acceptance of radium from Belgium on account of its debt to United States.
374
Mar. 22 Memorandum by the Special Assistant to the Secretary of State
Résumé of conversation with the President in which he outlined an idea relating to the formation of certain self-contained economic units as a basis for international stabilization.
375
May 16 From the Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Hospitalization
Expression of hope that the Secretary will ascertain possibility of obtaining radium from Belgium as payment on its war debt.
377
May 23 To the Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Hospitalization
Résumé of situation in connection with Belgian debt; and indication that periodic notice of payment due, to be given shortly, may open opportunity to consider mutually advantageous method of payment.
377
May 29 To President Roosevelt
Request for approval of draft of final paragraph of debt notices, and for advice on suggestion to various countries for special payments in materials, particularly to Great Britain and Belgium.
378
May 31 Memorandum by the Economic Adviser to the Secretary of State
Information that the President has given his approval to draft of debt notices and to idea of suggesting payments in kind.
379
June 5 Memorandum by the Economic Adviser
Conversation with the Belgian Ambassador in which the matter of payment in radium was broached.
380
June 6 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the British Ambassador, who expressed fear that the suggestion regarding payments in kind would not be received favorably by the Foreign Office.
380
Aug. 5 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Advice from the British Ambassador that his Government was obliged to reply adversely to the suggestion for payments in kind.
382
[Page XXXVI]

REJECTION BY THE SENATE OF THE RESOLUTION FOR ADHERENCE BY THE UNITED STATES TO THE STATUTE OF THE PERMANENT COURT OF INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 3 Memorandum by Mr. John S. Dickey, Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation of Assistant Secretary Sayre with Senator Pittman in which the former presented the President’s desire for adherence to the World Court without the restrictions recommended in the Walsh–Fess report; Pittman’s position and his suggestion of Senator Joe T. Robinson to lead movement for adherence.
(Footnote: Text of Walsh–Fess resolution.)
383
Jan. 9 To President Roosevelt
Approval by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee of the World Court resolution embodying the Reed Amendment, but without certain objectionable restrictions.
385
Jan. 9 (2) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice of Resolution adopted by the Foreign Relations Committee (text printed), and authorization to inform League Secretariat officials informally, with a view to possibility of efforts to hasten ratification of protocol for the accession of the United States.
386
Jan. 11 (5) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Discussion of the situation with the Secretary General, who will proceed with it on a personal basis.
386
Jan. 11 From Senator Arthur H. Vandenberg
Submission to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee of an interpretive reservation (text printed) to the resolution of adherence; advice that the Committee rejected it, apparently at behest of the Administration, and request for Secretary’s opinion as to the reason for rejection.
387
Jan. 15 To Senator Arthur II. Vandenberg
Opinion that the reservation submitted is not necessary for the protection of any American interest and could only have the effect of misleading the public in an irresponsible manner.
388
(Note: Rejection by the Senate of the resolution of adherence on January 29.) 389

NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF LIQUOR SMUGGLING INTO THE UNITED STATES

Date and number Subject Page
1934 May 25 (2451) From the Consul at Habana
Conversation with Cuban Secretary of the Treasury concerning measures to suppress smuggling of liquor from Cuba into United States under the Convention of 1926.
390
Aug. 7 (119) From the Consul at Habana
Representations to the new Secretary of the Treasury with suggestion of specific ways in which Cuba might cooperate with the United States to suppress smuggling; report on steps already taken by Cuba in this direction.
393
[Page XXXVII]

SUPPRESSION OF LIQUOR SMUGGLING

[Page XXXVIII] [Page XXXIX] [Page XL] [Page XLI]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Aug. 22 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Discussion with Treasury Department officials of operation of an incipient rum row fleet with rendezvous at St. Pierre; suggestion that Canadian liquor dealers might wish to seek help from their Government and the British Government for suppression of this illegal trade.
395
Oct. 12 (97) To the Minister in Guatemala
Instructions to make representations concerning activities of the Jagersfon and other vessels suspected of smuggling from Puerto Barrios; suggested steps that might be taken by Guatemala.
396
Nov. 9 To the French Ambassador
Evidences of smuggling through St. Pierre-et-Miquelon; hope that the French Government will take steps to prevent illegal activities.
398
Nov. 12 To the British Ambassador
Recent increase in liquor smuggling activities from Newfoundland; summary of operations of several vessels, registered at St. John’s but operating from Nova Scotia; hope that the British Government will take appropriate steps to clear up the situation.
399
Nov. 19 (428) From the Minister in Guatemala
Advice that the Minister of Finance is favorably disposed to the negotiation of a treaty for the suppression of illicit liquor and chicle traffic.
401
Nov. 21 (1963) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Information that liquor smuggling from Cuba to Florida has been almost eliminated; relation of Cuban vigilance in this respect to the situation of arms smuggling into Cuba from Florida.
402
Nov. 23 Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Suggestions given to the French Commercial Attaché upon his inquiry, of steps that might be taken to prevent the use of St. Pierre-et-Miquelon as a smuggling base.
403
Dec. 5 (2071) 1935 From the Ambassador in Cuba
Measures taken by the Secretary of the Treasury to prevent liquor shipments to ports from which liquor is smuggled into United States; hope that United States will reciprocate by preventing smuggling of arms into Cuba.
404
Jan. 16 Memorandum by the Assistant to the Secretary of the Treasury of a Conference With the Counselor of the British Embassy
Discussion of ways and means by which British Government might succeed in solving the problem of smuggling by ships of British registry.
405
Jan. 22 (12) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to explain to British authorities the direct personal interest of President Roosevelt in the smuggling matter, and his growing impatience over apparent lack of British cooperation.
408
Jan. 23 (31) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information from Foreign Office that an urgent meeting of appropriate governmental departments has been called; its desire also for information as to effective measures taken by the French or Canadians to prevent smuggling.
(Footnote: Desired information furnished previously to British Embassy.)
408
Jan. 24 (148) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Information, in reply to Department’s inquiry, that there is no effective Netherland legislation which would prevent vessels from transshipping their cargoes to other vessels on the high seas.
409
Jan. 31 From the Counselor of the British Embassy to the Secretary of the Treasury
Inquiry in respect to resumption of reporting departure from British ports of vessels with “interesting” cargoes under arrangement of 1926.
409
Feb. 5 From the Secretary of the Treasury to the Counselor of the British Embassy
Affirmative reply with details as to information desired, and reporting procedures.
410
Feb. 13 From the Consul General at St. John’s
Advice that the Newfoundland Commission of Government has approved the Bermuda system of landing certificates.
(Footnote: Confirmation by Dominions Office, effective date to be February 17.)
411
Feb. 25 From the Counselor of the British Embassy to the Secretary of the Treasury
Advice of action taken by the Government of Newfoundland to prevent smuggling of liquor into United States.
411
Mar. 15 From the French Embassy
Details of regulations to prevent the use of St. Pierre-et-Miquelon as a smuggling base, and advice that they will be put into effect upon assurances that cruises of the U. S. Lines will stop at St. Pierre.
412
Apr. 5 (176) To the Minister in Guatemala
Instructions to bring to attention of Guatemalan Government the recrudescence of smuggling activity from Puerto Barrios, to inform them of the cooperative steps taken by other countries, and to request that similar measures be taken by Guatemala.
413
Apr. 17 (344) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French publication of decree containing provisions to suppress illicit alcohol trade from St. Pierre-et-Miquelon.
414
Apr. 23 (436) From the Ambassador in Belgium
Information, in response to inquiry, that there is no Belgian law or regulation prohibiting transfer of cargoes of Belgian origin on the high seas.
414
Apr. 27 (722) To the Chargé in Mexico
Review of steps taken by various countries to prevent their ports from being used as smuggling bases; instructions to request Mexico to take similar steps.
(Footnote: Information that no satisfactory progress was made during remainder of 1935, although Mexico expressed willingness to cooperate.)
415
May 23 (17) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Disappointment over delay in Guatemalan reply; instructions to inform Guatemala of steps taken by other governments, and express hope for an early and favorable reply.
418
May 31 (667) From the Minister in Guatemala
Information as to temporary measures taken by Guatemala to counteract smuggling activities from Puerto Barrios pending further study of situation.
(Footnote: Minister’s report, July 13, 1936, that “smuggling from Puerto Barrios has ceased.”)
419
June 20 (230) To the Chargé in Belgium
Evidences of the transfer of cargoes loaded in Belgian ports to smuggling vessels on the high seas; instructions to make representations for measures to prevent this practice.
419
July 5 (300) To the Minister in Norway
Instructions to take up with the appropriate authorities the case of the Norwegian steamship Anders which transferred its cargo on the high seas to a smuggling vessel, apparently in violation of Norwegian law of June 25, 1926 (text printed).
422
July 29 To the Consul General at Ottawa
Instructions to take up matter of whether masters of liquor vessels could be compelled to include in their affidavits additional information which would indicate disposition made of cargo of alcohol or liquor transferred to another vessel.
423
July 31 From the British Ambassador to the Secretary of the Treasury
Information on the steps which have been taken in the various British West Indian Colonies to assist U. S. authorities in the suppression of liquor smuggling.
424
Aug. 5 From the Secretary of the Treasury to the British Ambassador
Expression of appreciation for Ambassador’s letter and cooperation.
426
Aug. 9 (256) To the Ambassador in Belgium
Acknowledgment of receipt of a Belgian note, reiterating 1929 position of inability to take certain measures desired by United States; request that Foreign Office be informed of case of steamer Trajan, in the hope that it may find some means of indirect help to prevent smuggling.
426
Aug. 27 (2850) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Finance Minister’s statement that he is without authority to act in Cozumel Island, suspected as a base of smuggling operations, inasmuch as it is a free zone.
427
Sept. 20 (732) From the Consul General at Ottawa
Transmittal of Canadian draft memorandum intended to carry out U. S. suggestion relative to masters’ affidavits, together with inquiry as to whether this covers the suggestion made. Canadian desire also for U. S. compliance with any corresponding requests for information.
428
Sept. 20 From the Danish Ministry for Foreign Affairs to the American Legation in Denmark
Nonapplicability of Danish law to activity of the vessel Jan, concerning which representations were made by the U. S. Legation.
429
Oct. 3 (69) To the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Notification that Commander B. M. Thompson, of the Treasury Department, will visit Brussels soon to discuss matter of obtaining Belgian cooperation in preventing liquor smuggling into United States.
430
Oct. 8 (47) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Notification of early arrival of Thompson for talks relative to smuggling.
430
Oct. 16 (599) From the Ambassador in Belgium
Detailed account of Thompson’s visit and his meetings with Belgian officials, who maintained their opposition to suggested measures for cooperating with United States in suppression of smuggling.
430
Oct. 19 (74) To the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
For Thompson: Arguments to be used in conversations with the Belgian and Netherland authorities.
433
Oct. 22 From the Counselor of the British Embassy to the Secretary of the Treasury
British readiness to discuss from time to time problems connected with illicit shipments of liquor from the British West Indies.
434
Oct. 22 (610) From the Ambassador in Belgium
Agreement of Paul van Zeeland, Belgian Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, to discuss personally with Thompson the matter of alcohol shipments; van Zeeland’s intimation of future request for quid pro quo.
435
Oct. 28 From the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury
Opinion that Canadian memorandum transmitted in despatch of September 20 from the Consul General at Ottawa, covers U. S. suggestions. Willingness to comply with any Canadian requests for information on similar matters.
436
Nov. 12 (16) To the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to expedite reply from Norwegian Government to U. S. representations on smuggling.
436
Nov. 13 (25) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Renewed representations as instructed; advice that judicial investigation is now being made in the case of the steamship Anders.
437
Nov. 18 To the Secretary of the Treasury
Discussion as to type of requests for information by Canada with which the United States would comply.
437
Nov. 18 (641) From the Ambassador in Belgium
Further unsuccessful representations relative to alcohol shipments; four-point summary of Belgian position.
439
Nov. 20 (18) To the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Instructions to request Consulate General to inform owner of the vessel Bodo of its activities connected with alcohol shipments from Antwerp, apparently in violation of Norwegian law.
441
Nov. 22 (27) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Information as to action of the Norwegian Minister of Commerce in an effort to stop possible illegal activities of the Bodo.
441
Nov. 25 (28) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Advice that owners and agents of the Bodo have been warned by Consul General at Oslo and by Norwegian Government of danger of violation of Norwegian law.
442
Nov. 29 (94) From the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Advice from Van Zeeland that, although he had no legal power to stop alcohol shipments from Antwerp, he would make it as difficult as possible for the alcohol shippers; action of authorities in connection with the Bodo.
443
Dec. 3 (80) To the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Appreciation of Embassy’s efforts in the smuggling matter.
443
Dec. 5 (88) From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.)
Conversation of Thompson and Chargé with Minister of Finance; inquiry as to making request for extension to all ships carrying spirits of existing provisions for small ships, in view of present inactivity at Rotterdam.
444
Dec. 7 (53) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Instructions to make the request, in view of possible future activity of smugglers in European ports.
444
Dec. 18 From the Consul at St. Pierre (tel.)
Telegram sent to Halifax (text printed) relative to the Bodo and its cargo of alcohol and coal.
444
1936 Jan. 2 (23) To the Minister in Norway
Information that the Bodo arrived at St. Pierre without unloading its alcohol cargo on the high seas; commendation of work of Legation and of Consulate General at Oslo in this connection, and instructions to express gratitude to Norwegian Government.
445

ATTITUDE OF THE UNITED STATES WITH RESPECT TO LEAGUE OF NATIONS ACTIVITIES IN THE REGULATION OF TRAFFIC IN OPIUM AND OTHER DANGEROUS DRUGS

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Apr. 16 To the Secretary General of the League of Nations
Reservation in respect to resolution passed by the Opium Advisory Committee on November 20, 1934.
447
Apr. 20 To the Secretary General of the League of Nations
Acknowledgment of receipt of draft convention for the suppression of illicit traffic in narcotic drugs, and indication of reasons for disinclination to participate in the convention.
448
May 26 (204) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
From Fuller, Assistant Chief of Division of Far Eastern Affairs and U. S. adviser at 20th session of League Opium Advisory Committee: Adverse opinion on Turko-Italian proposals to alter the Committee’s policy in preparing reports.
(Footnote: Committee’s eventual rejection of proposals.)
449
Undated Memorandum Based on Report by the Assistant Chief of the Division of Far Eastern Affairs
Summary of proceedings of the 20th session of the League Opium Advisory Committee.
(Footnote: Date of report, July 27, 1935.)
450
[Page XLII]

CONTROL OF NARCOTIC DRUGS

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Sept. 7 (306) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Council’s adoption of report of Rapporteur relating to the session of Opium Advisory Committee; statement by the British representative (text printed) objecting to passage on alleged illegal traffic in dangerous drugs from British West Indies.
451
Oct. 29 (551) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of communication sent to members of the Advisory Committee by the Director of the Opium Section relative to next meeting of Committee.
(Copies sent to Fuller.)
452

RECONSIDERATION BY THE SENATE OF RESERVATION ATTACHED TO CONSENT TO RATIFICATION OF THE ARMS TRAFFIC CONVENTION, SIGNED AT GENEVA, JUNE 17, 1925

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Mar. 1 (11) From the Minister in Persia (tel.)
Foreign Office request that, in event of elimination of the Senate reservation regarding the Persian Gulf (King reservation), an official statement be made so that action could not be construed as Senate repudiation of any Persian rights in the Gulf.
453
Mar. 12 (98) To the Minister in Persia
Instructions to seek opportunity to point out to the Prime Minister that the reservation does not constitute a declaration of U. S. policy.
453
Mar. 19 (384) From the Minister in Persia
Foreign Minister’s disappointment over Senate elimination of the King reservation, information of which he had received from the Persian Minister in Washington.
454
June 8 (16) To the Minister in Iran (tel.)
Senate advice and consent on June 6 to ratification of Arms Traffic Convention without the reservation referring to the Persian Gulf.
(Footnote: “Persia” became “Iran” on March 22, 1935.)
455
June 27 (930) To the Ambassador in France
Transmittal of President’s instrument of ratification, dated June 21, for deposit with the French Government, with due note made of Senate reservation as to date of coming into force.
455
Sept. 3 (2141) From the Chargé in France
Foreign Office note stating that because of U. S. reservation, the ratification cannot be counted as one of the 14 required for establishment of the first procès-verbal of deposit of ratifications.
456
1936 Feb. 15 (1206) To the Chargé in France
Instructions to ascertain why deposit of ratification of other countries making reservations was, according to a League document, permitted, while that of the United States was refused.
456
[Page XLIII]

ARMS TRAFFIC CONVENTION

Date and number Subject Page
1936 May 1 (2724) From the Ambassador in France
French explanation that U. S. notice of ratification had not been received in time to permit of publication in document cited; that no procès-verbal has been signed.
458
July 3 (2881) From the Ambassador in France
Transmittal of note from the Foreign Office acknowledging receipt of U. S. instrument of ratification.
459
July 30 (1432) To the Ambassador in France
Department’s agreement with French view that U. S. ratification with reservation cannot be counted as one of the 14 ratifications necessary to put convention into effect.
460
(Note: Information that, failing ratification by the necessary countries, the convention did not come into effect for the United States.) 460

REPRESENTATIONS BY FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS REGARDING BILLS FOR THE DEPORTATION OF CERTAIN ALIEN SEAMEN

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 22 Memorandum by the Swedish Minister
Renewal of Swedish representations of 1934, in view of introduction in Senate of a new bill for the deportation of certain alien seamen.
461
Feb. 18 From the Canadian Minister
Reiteration of objections expressed in 1932 in connection with similar bills recently introduced in Congress.
461
Mar. 13 From the Norwegian Minister
Reference to representations of previous years, and desire that attention of appropriate U. S. authorities be called to serious consequences of contemplated legislation.
462
Apr. 6 (92) From the British Ambassador
Advice that British objections to the alien seamen bills before Congress are as strong as in previous years regarding similar bills.
462
Apr. 10 From the Italian Embassy
Protest against measures introduced in Congress, with reference to previous protests.
463
June 13 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Conversation with the Netherland Minister, who called to renew protest against the King-Dies Bill in respect to seamen.
463
June 15 To the Senate Majority Leader
Explanation of reasons why the Department is opposed to bill S. 379 relative to alien seamen.
(Footnote: Identic note sent to Speaker of the House.)
464
June 17 From the German Embassy
Objections to alien seamen bills pending in Congress, with reference to previous representations relative to similar bills.
464
[Page XLIV]

DEPORTATION OF ALIEN SEAMEN

Date and number Subject Page
1935 June 17 From the Chief of the Visa Division to the Assistant Secretary of State
Senator Copeland’s belief that bill S. 379 will not reach the Senate floor; his request for a short letter stating Department’s opposition to the bill; transmittal of a draft of letter for approval.
465
Aug. 19 From President Roosevelt
Copy of a letter (text printed) recently sent to the President of the Seamen’s Union, advising that a committee is being formed to study the situation concerning alien seamen. Request that the Secretary designate a member of the committee referred to.
466
(Note: List of appointees to committee.) 467

OPPOSITION BY CERTAIN FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS AND BY THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE TO PROVISIONS IN PROPOSED SHIPPING LEGISLATION

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Mar. 18 (38) From the Danish Minister
Danish concern over possible consequences of enactment of the Eastman Bill (S. 1632 and H. R. 5379) or the issuance by Department of Commerce of an order recommended by the United States Shipping Board Bureau (substance printed).
468
Mar. 18 Memorandum by Mr. William R. Vallance of the Office of the Legal Adviser
Steps taken to give Charles S. Haight, attorney for Norwegian tramp steamship owners, opportunity for full hearing on the Eastman Bill; Haight’s report following the hearing.
470
Apr. 4 From the British Embassy
Reference to provisions of proposed report of the U. S. Shipping Board Bureau, and summary of representations against them made by the British Board of Trade, after discussion with British shipping interests.
471
Apr. 11 From the Norwegian Minister
Norwegian opinion that proposed order of the U. S. Shipping Board Bureau and provisions of the Eastman Bill are not in accordance with section 7 of the U. S.-Norwegian treaty of 1928.
472
May 10 Resolution Adopted by the Executive Committee on Commercial Policy
Committee’s view that the pending shipping legislation would be injurious to American shipping and to American foreign trade.
474
May 10 From the Danish Minister
Protest against provisions of S. 2582 and H. R. 7521, recently introduced in Congress, as apparently not in accordance with treaty rights and principles of international law.
475
May 15 From the Norwegian Minister
Further protest relative to proposed shipping regulations and especially in respect to S. 2582.
476
[Page XLV]

PROPOSED SHIPPING LEGISLATION

Date and number Subject Page
1935 May 15 To the Chairman of the House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries
Explanation of Department’s objections to pending shipping legislation.
(Footnote: Other recipients of similar letters.)
477
June 18 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
President Roosevelt’s apparent lack of interest in subject of a conference to consider ship subsidy legislation.
479
Aug. 16 Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Division of Trade Agreements
Introduction of a revised ship subsidy measure by Senator Copeland; indication of its provisions, and belief that objectionable features in earlier bills have been eliminated.
479

REPRESENTATIONS BY CERTAIN FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS AGAINST INCOME TAX IN THE UNITED STATES ON NON-RESIDENT ALIENS

Date and number Subject Page
1934 Dec. 17 From the British Embassy
Position on announced U. S. intention to tax non-residents’ profits resulting from trading through agents in stocks, bonds, and commodities; explanation of adverse effect of such taxation on trade in cotton and other commodities.
481
1935 Jan. 15 From the French Embassy
Fear that U. S. persistence in intention to tax profits of nonresident French nationals will lead to use of other than U. S. markets by French firms.
483
Feb. 16 To the French Ambassador
Report from Treasury Department (excerpt printed) emphasizing that the taxing of profits of non-resident aliens is not a new policy, but that owing to objections raised suggesting involvement of international commerce, a careful study of the matter is being made.
484
Feb. 21 (76) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Inquiry as to whether British subjects visiting America for business must pay tax on their British salaries for that period under article 674 of Income Tax Regulations.
485
Mar. 27 (68) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Affirmative reply to inquiry; information, however, that consideration is being given to recommending a change in the regulations.
485
Apr. 5 From the French Embassy
Request for information as to results of the study referred to in Department’s note of February 16.
486
Apr. 25 To the Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives
Transmittal of a draft bill to exempt from taxation, under certain conditions, the compensation of certain foreign representatives; concern over possible foreign retaliatory measures if exemption is not granted.
487
[Page XLVI]

TAX ON NON-RESIDENT ALIENS

Date and number Subject Page
1935 June 21 (2115) From the Netherland Legation
Protests against taxation of Netherland persons and firms on income received from transactions on American stock exchanges since 1929; suggestions for discussion of matter looking toward an agreement to prevent double taxation.
489
Aug. 28 To the Netherland Minister
Treasury Department’s approval in general of elimination of double taxation by reciprocal treaty, but opinion that the Netherland Legation plan is not detailed enough in certain specific particulars.
490
Aug. 30 From the Swedish Chargé
Request for good offices of the Department in connection with taxation of the income of Swedish businessmen visiting the United States for business reasons; two specific inquiries on tax regulations.
491
Sept. 23 Memorandum by the Egyptian Chargé
Inquiry as to liability for tax payment on income from certain French securities bought in United States by the Egyptian Government and deposited in a New York bank.
492
Oct. 8 To the Swedish Minister
Explanation of U. S. method of taxing the income of nonresident aliens, and indication that consideration is being given to possible recommendation for changes in the law.
493
Oct. 15 To the Egyptian Minister
Information from Treasury Department that there is no provision for taxing income of foreign governments; advice that matter of taxation of the securities by New York State is being investigated.
494
Nov. 2 To the Egyptian Minister
Advice from the Governor of New York that New York has no tax which would apply to the securities described by the Minister.
495

INQUIRY BY THE NANSEN INTERNATIONAL OFFICE FOR REFUGEES CONCERNING THE POSSIBILITY OF SETTLING REFUGEES IN THE UNITED STATES

Date and number Subject Page
1935 July 22 (3970) From the Minister in Switzerland
Circular letter of July 19 from the Secretary General of the League of Nations (text printed), requesting information as to possibility of settling refugees in the United States, for transmittal to the Nansen International Office.
496
Aug. 9 From the Secretary General of the Nansen International Office for Refugees
Supplementary suggestions as to type of information the Nansen International Office would be glad to receive.
497
Aug. 12 (3119) To the Chargé in Switzerland
Reply to League circular letter of July 19, enclosing a memorandum prepared by the Visa Division (texts printed), containing an explanation of immigration regulations.
499
Sept. 13 To the Secretary General of the Nansen International Office for Refugees
Expression of interest in Secretary General’s letter of August 9; belief, however, that U. S. position was made clear in memorandum transmitted August 12.
501
[Page XLVII]

INQUIRIES ADDRESSED TO EUROPEAN GOVERNMENTS REGARDING THEIR POSSIBLE ADHERENCE TO THE TREATY FOR THE PROTECTION OF ARTISTIC AND SCIENTIFIC INSTITUTIONS AND HISTORIC MONUMENTS

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 11 Memorandum by the Chief of the Treaty Division to the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs
Lack of sympathy with the treaty in the Department; President’s issuance of full powers to the Secretary of Agriculture to sign the treaty on behalf of the United States.
502
Apr. 15 From the Director General of the Pan American Union
Notification that treaty, formulated by the Governing Board of the Pan American Union in compliance with the resolution on the Roerich Pact of the Montevideo Conference of 1933, is opened to the adherence of all states of the world.
502
Aug. 2 (254) To the Ambassador in Belgium
Explanation of origins of treaty, which was signed April 15 by the United States and the 20 other American Republics; instructions to ascertain attitude of the Government to which accredited.
(Footnote: Identic instructions sent to missions in United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands.)
503
Aug. 16 (1635) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom
Foreign Office feeling at present that it is not necessary for Great Britain to accede.
504
Aug. 22 (862) From the Ambassador in Spain
Intention of Spanish Government to adhere to treaty when officially informed that it has been signed and ratified by all the American Republics.
(Footnote: No further communication reported.)
504
Sept. 3 (1284) From the Chargé in Italy
Advice that inquiry has been made at the Foreign Office as to the Italian view.
(Footnote: No reply to inquiry reported.)
505
Sept. 5 (280) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Netherland expression of sympathetic interest in the treaty on two occasions, but unwillingness to accede without further investigation.
(Footnote: No further communication reported.)
505
Sept. 11 From the Belgian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Commerce to the American Ambassador in Belgium
Explanation as to why Belgium cannot take the initiative in support of the treaty; reservation of right, however, to reexamine question in case of adherence by principal European countries.
507
Sept. 24 (2329) From the Ambassador in Germany
Foreign Office explanation of its unenthusiastic view of the treaty.
508
Oct. 14 (2242) From the Chargé in France
Information from Foreign Office that its legal advisers do not consider pact worthy of serious consideration, at least at present time.
509
[Page XLVIII]

NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A TRANSATLANTIC AIR TRANSPORT SERVICE

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Apr. 24 (92) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information regarding discussion of cooperation in establishment of a trans-Atlantic air transport service in a meeting of U. S. officials with a French aviation mission, during which one of the U. S. officials suggested consultation with Great Britain but did not authorize an invitation to them.
510
May 6 Memorandum by Mr. Stephen Latchford of the Treaty Division
Summary of discussion at meeting between representatives of the Department and of Pan American Airways on possible relationship between pending negotiations of Pan American Airways and Imperial Airways with Portuguese Government and the proposals of the recent French air mission to United States.
511
June 25 (177) From the British Ambassador
Advice as to developments, including démarche of French Ambassador in London, and negotiations between Imperial Airways and Pan American Airways looking toward cooperation in establishing a trans-Atlantic air service; inquiry as to U. S. position and future plans.
513
July 17 To the British Ambassador
Information requested in British note of June 25.
514
Nov. 5 (316) From the British Ambassador
Advice that a British mission is being sent to Canada to discuss the possible establishment of a trans-Atlantic air service; suggestion that mission proceed to Washington for discussions after the talks in Ottawa.
(Footnote: Similar notes from Irish Minister and Canadian Chargé.)
515
Nov. 12 To the British Ambassador
Acceptance of suggestion, and indication that arrangements will be made for discussions between the British mission and the Interdepartmental Committee on Civil International Aviation.
(Footnote: Similar notes to the Irish Minister and the Canadian Chargé.)
516
Nov. 21 (137) To the Minister in Canada (tel.)
Instructions to inform representatives at the Ottawa discussions of U. S. desire for a general outline of the questions they propose to discuss in Washington.
516
Nov. 27 (328) From the British Ambassador
List of subjects which the British mission desires to discuss in Washington.
(Footnote: Similar notes from Canadian Chargé and Irish Minister.)
517
Dec. 2 (134) From the Minister in Canada (tel.)
Summary of information available on the Ottawa conversations, particularly with regard to proposed routes of the trans-Atlantic air service.
518
Dec. 12 Statement to the Press by Assistant Secretary of State R. Walton Moore
Announcement that as a result of Washington conferences with British, Canadian, and Irish representatives, understandings have been reached relative to trans-Atlantic air transport services.
(Footnote: Information that Mr. Moore was chairman of the conference.)
519
[Page XLIX]

SUPPLEMENTARY EXTRADITION TREATIES SIGNED BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND CERTAIN OTHER COUNTRIES

Date and number Subject Page
(Note: Citation to texts of treaties with Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Luxembourg, Poland, and Switzerland.) 520

APPROVAL BY THE SECRETARY OF STATE OF THE ECONOMIC PROGRAM ADOPTED BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS, SEPTEMBER 28, 1935

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Sept. 24 (370) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
British resolution relative to international trade policy (text printed), submitted to the Second Committee of the League Assembly; expectation that it will be adopted by the Committee without material change.
(Footnote: Adoption by Committee without change.)
521
Sept. 25 (265) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to express to British authorities gratification at the resolution submitted to Economic Committee of the League Assembly.
(Sent, mutatis mutandis, to Paris.)
522
Sept. 26 (99) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions to explain importance of resolution to correspondents of American newspapers, and point out its similarity to American policy.
522
Sept. 27 (100) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Note to be delivered to the Chairman of the Second Committee (text printed) containing high praise for the recent resolution.
522
Sept. 28 (391) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that the report and resolution of the Second Committee were adopted by the Assembly without discussion.
523
Sept. 28 (392) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Account of the presentation of the Secretary’s message to the Assembly by its President, Eduard Beneš; view of large number of delegates that Secretary’s action served a highly useful purpose.
524
Sept. 28 (394) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Letter from Beneš (text printed) acknowledging Secretary’s message; information that both are being published by the Secretariat.
525
Oct. 1 To Diplomatic Officers in the American Republics
Transmittal of copy of Secretary’s message of September 27 to League Committee, with instructions to give it to the Foreign Minister as evidence of growing worldwide support of the principles worked out at the Montevideo Conference.
525
Undated (421) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Letter from the Secretary General of the League, addressed to the Secretary (text printed), expressing personal appreciation of the Secretary’s message and noting American cooperation with the League in economic and financial matters.
526
Oct. 5 From the French Minister of Commerce and Industry
Statement of personal appreciation of terms of Secretary’s recent message, and assurance that principles stated met with full approval of governments represented at Geneva.
527
[Page L]

ECONOMIC PROGRAM ADOPTED BY THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Oct. 24 To the French Minister of Commerce and Industry
Expression of pleasure on receipt of Minister’s message, and belief that prospects for progress toward economic sanity have been at no time in recent years so bright as at present.
528

INTEREST OF THE UNITED STATES IN THE WORK OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE FOR THE STUDY OF COMPENSATION AND CLEARING AGREEMENTS, GENEVA, MARCH 25, 1935

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Mar. 6 From Mr. Oscar B. Ryder, United States Tariff Commissioner
Copies of letter written to the Director of Economic Relations Section of the League of Nations (text printed) in response to his request for views on clearing agreements. Intention to sail March 13 to attend meeting of League Joint Committee on Clearing Agreements.
529
Mar. 11 To the Consul at Geneva
Transmittal of copy of Ryder’s letter, and notification of Ryder’s arrival in Geneva about March 21, together with Henry Deimel of the Office of the Economic Adviser.
532
Apr. 1 (107) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
From Deimel: Summary of report of Joint Committee on Compensation and Clearing Agreements; comment that report is in general unfavorable to clearing agreements. Information that Ryder is proceeding to Italy shortly.
532
Apr. 9 (72) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
For Ryder: Expression of belief that Joint Committee report gives support to U. S. trade policies, and of thanks for Ryder’s part in preparing report.
534
May 20 (192) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
League Council’s adoption of the report of its rapporteur on the work of the Joint Committee on Compensation and Clearing Agreements.
534

STANDARD GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR TRADE AGREEMENTS NEGOTIATED UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 12, 1934

Date and number Subject Page
1935 June 6 To Diplomatic and Consular Officers
Transmittal of copies of a statement to the press of April 1, 1935 (text printed), on U. S. policy concerning the generalization of tariff concessions under trade agreements, and of the standard general provisions for trade agreements (text printed).
536

NON-APPLICABILITY OF FOREIGN REGULATIONS CONCERNING SOCIAL INSURANCE TO EMPLOYEES OF AMERICAN CONSULATES

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Nov. 13 (234) To the Chargé in the Union of South Africa
Reply to inquiry concerning insurance for employees of American Consulates under local Workmen’s Compensation Act, stating Department’s position that no government can require another government to pay premiums on such insurance; résumé of precedent and cases in international law substantiating position.
550
[Page LI]

THE NEAR EAST AND AFRICA

AFGHANISTAN

Unsuccessful Negotiations Between the United States and Afghanistan Looking Toward a Provisional Agreement in Regard to Friendship, Diplomatic and Consular Representation, Juridical Protection, and Commercial Relations

Date and number Subject Page
1934 Oct. 13 (1282) From the Ambassador in France
Request for suggestions for a reply to the Afghan Minister, who suggested a treaty of friendship to put relations between the United States and Afghanistan on a permanent basis.
555
1935 Jan. 2 (692) To the Ambassador in France
Instructions to suggest negotiations along lines of a draft agreement (text printed) in regard to friendship, diplomatic and consular representation, juridical protection, and commercial relations.
556
Feb. 14 (129) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Afghan Minister’s statement that his Government preferred a more formal treaty; his inclination, however, to sign the accord as proposed after Ambassador’s explanation that ratification of a treaty would take considerable time.
559
June 4 (464) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Agreement of Afghan Legation to draft proposed, except for most-favored-nation provision of article IV, and its desire to have agreement signed in English and Iranian; Afghan proposed wording of article IV (text printed).
560
June 6 (209) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Opinion that Afghan Government does not differ in principle from U. S. policy on most-favored-nation treatment, but that its counterdraft of article IV is ambiguous.
561
June 29 (548) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Request for authorization to propose a substitution for article IV, since the Afghans are still unwilling to accept U. S. phraseology.
(Footnote: Authorization granted.)
561
Oct. 7 (863) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Advice that Afghans will accept proposed substitution for article IV with one phrase omitted, and have abandoned idea of Iranian text.
561
Oct. 14 (425) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Department’s opposition to acceptance of agreement unless the principle of most-favored-nation treatment is concurred in by Afghanistan.
562
Oct. 18 (905) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Wording of article IV as it would be with the proposed Afghan alteration (text printed).
562
Oct. 26 (438) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Satisfaction with Afghan version of article IV; instructions to make sure Afghan Government understands that language carries the obligation of unlimited and unconditional most-favored-nation treatment.
563
Nov. 22 (984) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Note from the Afghan Minister which fails to give the desired assurance of understanding of article IV.
563
[Page LII]

EGYPT

Statement by the Department of State Relating to the Official Status of the American Consular Court at Cairo

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Aug. 26 To Messrs. Alexander and Green of New York
Explanation, in answer to an inquiry, of the bases of jurisdiction of American consular courts in Egypt, with particular attention to their jurisdiction over matters involving personal status of U. S. citizens.
565

Attempt by the Egyptian Government To Obtain a Greater Degree of Equality Between the Egyptian and Foreign Elements in the Organization and Procedure of the Mixed Courts

[Page LIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Oct. 13 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Telegraphic information from Chargé in Cairo relative to an Egyptian request, in circular note of October 12, that native judges have the right to preside over chambers of the Mixed Court and that the Arabic language be admitted in practice in pleadings and decisions; comments on the request and its background.
567
Oct. 17 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Receipt of further details from Cairo on position of Egyptian Government, and comments thereon.
568
Nov. 6 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Appeal by the Egyptian Minister for a favorable reply to his Government’s note; his indication that the principal point involved is question of use of the Arabic language.
569
Nov. 6 From the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs to the Under Secretary of State
Observation that the use of Arabic is in fact permitted by the court statutes, but long usage has established the use of French exclusively.
570
1935 Jan. 3 From the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs to the Under Secretary of State
Summary of letter from the American judge on the Court of Appeals, giving his views on the Egyptian request. Suggestion that U. S. reply to Egyptian note be delayed until the Powers more directly concerned have taken action.
(Footnote: Under Secretary’s agreement with suggestion.)
571
Jan. 25 (4) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Summary of British reply to Egyptian circular note.
573
Feb. 8 (6) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Foreign Office request that U. S. reply to circular note be expedited.
573
Feb. 23 (12) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Summary of Italian reply to Egyptian note.
573
Mar. 18 (76) To the Minister in Egypt
Instructions for reply to be delivered to the Foreign Office (substance printed).
574
July 10 From the Egyptian Minister for Foreign Affairs to the American Minister in Egypt
Submission for approval of an amendment (text printed) to the Regulations for the Judicial Organization, which would make possible the designation of judges to preside over trials without consideration of nationality or seniority.
575
1936 Jan. 3 (1) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Inclination to accept Egyptian proposal without reservation; request for information as to position of other Powers.
(Footnote: French reservation to acceptance of Egyptian proposal.)
576
Jan. 7 (1) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Agreement with Department as to desirability of acceptance of proposal without reservation; delay of Italian reply; Egyptian animosity toward France because of its reservation.
576
Jan. 13 (2) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Office of U. S. acceptance of the proposed amendment.
577

Reservation by the United States Government Regarding the Reorganization of the Municipality of Alexandria by Unilateral Action of the Egyptian Government

[Page LIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Feb. 14 (203) From the Minister in Egypt
Agreement among majority of Legations that so long as fiscal provisions of the Decree of 1890 are not disturbed the Powers cannot protest the recent Decree Law No. 1 establishing the reorganization of Alexandria municipal government; reservations made by Belgium and Italy.
577
Feb. 15 (204) From the Minister in Egypt
French reservation of all rights regarding the changes in administration of Alexandria by the unilateral procedure of Decree Law No. 1.
578
Feb. 25 (624) From the Consul General at Alexandria
Protest against the reorganization by the Association of Export Commerce of Alexandria. Observation that the British attitude toward any international movement tending to maintain capitulatory rights seems to be unfriendly.
579
Apr. 29 (84) To the Minister in Egypt
Reference to U. S. note (text quoted) giving adherence to the decree of 1890 establishing the Municipality of Alexandria; authorization to enter a reservation of U. S. position on the recent Egyptian unilateral action.
580
May 23 (266) From the Minister in Egypt
Note addressed to the Foreign Ministry, May 22 (text printed), stating U. S. position that the Egyptian unilateral action is likely to impair capitulatory rights of U. S. citizens.
581
July 12 (108) To the Minister in Egypt
Indication that instruction No. 84, April 29, merely authorized a reservation of U. S. position; desire, therefore, that Minister not press the view that reorganization of Alexandria Municipality is likely to impair U. S. capitulatory rights.
583
1936 Nov. 3 (198) To the Chargé in Egypt
Advice, in reply to an inquiry, that it would be inadvisable, in view of probable early termination of the capitulations, for the Consul General at Alexandria to participate in any discussion of selection of members of the Municipal Council.
584

Decision by the Egyptian Government To Participate in Sanctions Against Italy, Without Regard to Italy’s Capitulatory Privileges in Egypt

[Page LV]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Oct. 15 (72) From the Chargé in Egypt (tel.)
Preoccupation of British Residency with several questions including those of the application by Egypt of sanctions against Italy, and the related problem of the capitulations.
584
Nov. 1 (84) From the Chargé in Egypt (tel.)
Belief of British advisers in the Egyptian Government that economic sanctions could be applied without affecting capitulatory rights of countries other than Italy.
585
Nov. 2 (86) From the Chargé in Egypt (tel.)
Possible effect of sanctions on capitulatory rights of American citizens, and suggestion that United States might refrain from asserting these rights in cases of Americans trading with Italy or Ethiopia.
586
Nov. 3 (87) From the Chargé in Egypt (tel.)
Egyptian announcement of adherence to the principle of application of financial and economic sanctions decreed by the League of Nations.
587
Nov. 4 (88) From the Chargé in Egypt (tel.)
Press reports indicating Egypt’s difficulties connected with capitulations; renewal of suggestion concerning nonassertion of capitulatory rights of American citizens.
587
Nov. 4 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs to the Secretary of State
Consideration of the general problems arising from Egyptian announcement of sanctions, and examples of concrete problems that may arise; advice that Legal Adviser’s Office is being consulted regarding the Chargé’s suggestion.
588
Nov. 5 (90) From the Chargé in Egypt (tel.)
Views of Booth, British Judicial Adviser to Egypt, on legal aspects of Egyptian application of sanctions against Italy.
589
Nov. 7 (46) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Conditional approval of nonassertion of capitulatory rights as suggested in Chargé’s telegram No. 86, November 2, provided no attempt is made to invade rights of immunity of American nationals from Egyptian jurisdiction.
590
Nov. 11 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Italian Ambassador’s opinion that Egypt had adopted sanctions against Italy because of British pressure.
591
Nov. 11 (93) From the Chargé in Egypt (tel.)
Protest of Italian Minister against Egypt’s decision in principle to apply sanctions against Italy.
591
Nov. 14 (95) From the Chargé in Egypt (tel.)
Information from Booth relating to provisions of decree to be issued putting sanctions into effect; French Government’s extension of jurisdiction of the French sanctions to French nationals in Egypt.
592
Nov. 29 (103) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Summary of provisions of sanctions decree, signed November 28, and accompanying statement by the Prime Minister.
592

ETHIOPIA

Ethiopian-Italian Conflict

i. efforts by the league of nations and by france and the united kingdom for a peaceful settlement of the dispute between ethiopia and italy, January–september, 1935

[Page LVI] [Page LVII] [Page LVIII] [Page LIX] [Page LX] [Page LXI] [Page LXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 11 (8) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Ethiopian reservation of right to appeal dispute with Italy over Walwal incident to Council of League; uncertainty in attitude of Powers, with emerging trends indicative of Italian desire to keep matter out of the Council and British endeavor to arrange compromise.
594
Jan. 15 (19) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Information from Fulvio Suvich, Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, confirming Italian opposition to submission of dispute to League, and intimating that the nature of the dispute would result in indefinite postponement of action by League.
595
Jan. 15 (19) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Description of diplomatic moves concerning dispute, including efforts to dissuade Ethiopian delegate from presenting case to Council.
595
Jan. 16 (21) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Appeal of dispute to the Council by the Ethiopian delegate under article XI, paragraph 2, of the Covenant.
597
Jan. 16 (23) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Advice that General de Bono is to take over newly created post of High Commissioner for the Colonies of East Africa; King’s appointment of Mussolini as Minister of Colonies.
597
Jan. 17 (24) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Unsuccessful attempt of Italians to have Ethiopians withdraw their invocation of the Covenant.
597
Jan. 18 (911) From the Chargé in Italy
British efforts to effect a compromise, and their belief that dispute will be settled before Council discussion takes place.
598
Jan. 19 (28) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Italo-Ethiopian agreement to seek solution under article 5 of the Treaty of Friendship of 1928; Council’s postponement of consideration of Ethiopian appeal to next session.
598
Feb. 14 (72) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Clandestine movement of supplies and troops, pointing to more general preparation for extensive campaign in Ethiopia.
599
Feb. 25 (20) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Information from Emperor that direct negotiations are hopeless and that he will renew appeal to Geneva.
599
Mar. 18 (26) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Advice that Ethiopian delegation in France has been instructed to appeal to Geneva under article 15 of Covenant.
600
May 14 (174) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Appeal by Ethiopian Minister in France for Council action to settle dispute under article 15 in view of serious situation created by Italy’s mobilization and Italy’s failure to advance arbitration.
600
May 15 (265) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Summary of speech by Mussolini in which he defended Italian action in sending troops to Africa and expressed willingness to discuss dispute with Ethiopia; announcement of appointment of two members of commission of conciliation under the treaty of 1928.
600
May 18 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Information given in reply to question of Italian Ambassador that selection of Pitman Benjamin Potter, an American, as one of Ethiopia’s conciliators had been made without consultation with the U. S. Government.
602
May 20 (194) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice of telegram sent by the Emperor of Ethiopia to the President of the Council indicating difficulties in attempt at arbitration.
602
May 25 (201) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Texts of two resolutions adopted by the Council relative to arbitration attempt; statements by Ethiopian and Italian delegates.
603
May 29 (279) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Conversation with Suvich in which he stated that, owing to the uncertainties of the European situation, Italy felt it must liquidate the Ethiopian situation, and also specified Italy’s African objectives.
605
June 6 (1287 Pol.) From the Consul at Geneva
Information from Professor Potter on plans for the first meeting of the Commission of Arbitration, and his views as to difficulties that will be encountered.
606
June 21 (221) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Ethiopian proposal that the Council appoint neutral observers to investigate the situation on the Ethiopian frontier.
608
June 28 (245) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Information concerning work of Commission of Arbitration, meeting at Scheveningen after first meeting in Milan.
609
July 2 (332) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Discussion of Ethiopian-Italian dispute with the French Ambassador, who explained his views as to bases of a possible peaceful solution.
610
July 3 (50) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Information given to the Emperor by the British Minister that Mussolini had rejected a British plan for peaceful solution by means of certain territorial adjustments.
612
July 9 (48) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Adjournment of Arbitration Commission following disagreement over jurisdiction in connection with Ethiopian-Somaliland frontier; Professor Potter’s hope of another meeting on July 20.
612
July 9 (310) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Secretary’s opinion of dispute, and of Mussolini’s course; his explanation of British efforts toward peaceful settlement, and hope that the United States might impress on Mussolini the tragedy of making war on Ethiopia.
612
July 10 (232) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Receipt by Secretary General of the League of a communication from Ethiopian representative at Paris concerning breakdown of arbitration procedures at Scheveningen.
613
July 10 (56) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Foreign Office confirmation of rupture in Arbitration Commission, but no confirmation of a report that war has broken out.
614
July 11 (355) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Italian explanation of breakdown of arbitration as due to attempt of Commission to exceed its powers; admission by War Ministry of large number of troops and workmen in East Africa.
614
July 14 (592) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information from Italian Ambassador that in his opinion war is inevitable, and that Mussolini has taken an unfavorable attitude toward British suggestion of further discussion.
615
July 16 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Discussion by British Ambassador of Ethiopian situation and British alternatives of action after the “dead line” on September 29, when the rains suddenly cease in Ethiopia.
616
July 22 (385) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Information from British sources of efforts to initiate conversations among Italy, France, and England; Italian reserve in reference to negotiations, and detachment as to League action.
616
July 25 (331) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British announcement that arms and ammunition destined for Ethiopian Government would be permitted transit across British territory adjacent to Ethiopia, but that licenses to export arms to Ethiopia or to Italy would not be issued at present.
617
July 26 (402) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Intensification of propaganda in favor of drastic action against Ethiopia; anti-foreign demonstrations against England and Japan as well as Ethiopia.
617
July 27 (410) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
French Ambassador’s discussion of means whereby satisfaction to both Italian and British viewpoints might be possible at the League Council meeting.
618
July 29 (342) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British plans for Council meeting; their willingness to make some economic concessions to Italy in Ethiopia, but in no case to agree to destruction of Ethiopian independence.
620
July 31 (256) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of statements made at a private Council meeting by representatives of Great Britain, France, Italy, and Ethiopia on the scope of the agenda.
620
Aug. 1 (258) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Private negotiations among Great Britain, France, and Italy; continuance of obscurity in the situation.
621
Aug. 1 (260) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Mussolini’s objections to a draft resolution which provides for: continuance of arbitration procedures; direct negotiations between France, Great Britain, and Italy as signatories of treaty of 1906; bringing Ethiopia into conversations; and Council review of situation in September session.
622
Aug. 2 (428) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Analysis of the Ethiopian problem by the British Ambassador in connection with a discussion of the Council meeting.
623
Aug. 3 (265) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Receipt of advice that Great Britain is considering an approach to the United States on subject of U. S. collaboration in the projected conversations relating to the treaty of 1906.
624
Aug. 4 (268) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that Politis, Greek Minister at Paris, has been accepted by Italy and Ethiopia as the fifth arbitrator on the Arbitration Commission.
624
Aug. 8 (455) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Advice that conference of representatives of France, Great Britain, and Italy will take place on August 15, presumably at Paris.
625
Aug. 14 (688) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Arrival of British delegates in Paris for conference; probable British and Italian positions.
625
Aug. 14 (275) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice of “appeal” by Ethiopia to the Council, inquiring whether Council will remain unmoved as Italy sends troops to Africa to attack Ethiopia while Ethiopia finds it impossible to obtain arms.
626
Aug. 15 (691) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Summary of Paris conversations, in which the British showed their willingness to make concessions to Italy, and attempted to make the French see the necessity of standing with them.
626
Aug. 16 (694) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Further information relative to the Paris conversations, including the fact that the French delegate has given no indication of France’s position; acceptance by Politis of the position of fifth arbitrator.
627
Aug. 16 (373) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information from Foreign Office on Paris conversations of August 14.
628
Aug. 17 From the British Embassy
Detailed summary of proceedings at Paris; account of an interview of the French Ambassador at Rome with Mussolini, who was greatly preoccupied, and inclined to harp on questions of sanctions and supposed British hostility.
628
Aug. 18 (702) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Conversation with Eden, British representative at Paris meeting, who appeared discouraged, particularly by noncooperation of Mussolini, and was concerned over effect of Ethiopian dispute on European and world affairs.
631
Aug. 18 (703) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Breakdown of Paris negotiations due to Mussolini’s intransigent attitude.
632
Aug. 19 (711) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Press reaction to breakdown of negotiations.
632
Aug. 20 (384) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Secretary’s detailed comments on breakdown of Paris negotiations, on possible future developments, and also on the possibilities of close Anglo-American cooperation in the situation.
633
Aug. 21 (508) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Message relayed from Legation in Addis Ababa: Local feeling that Italy is irrevocably committed to extreme measures; confidence, however, in ability of nation to make conquest impossible.
635
Aug. 21 (388) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Consultation of Cabinet with representatives of various groups; Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of gravity of the situation.
635
Aug. 22 From the Consul at Basel (tel.)
Message relayed from the Ambassador in Germany: Observations pertaining to the international effects of developments in the Italo-Ethiopian dispute.
635
Aug. 22 (391) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Indications that the British Cabinet considers the present situation contains a challenge to the League and to British prestige; comments as to possible British immediate and long-range measures.
636
Aug. 23 (397) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Cabinet position on Anglo-French cooperation, and its authorization of a special Cabinet group, in conjunction with the Committee on Imperial Defence, to make any required rearrangements of forces affecting the fleet, air force, and army.
637
Aug. 24 (519) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Information from Foreign Office of progress in Arbitration Commission in investigation of facts relating to Walwal incident; view of Italian officials relative to outcome of the Paris negotiations.
638
Aug. 28 (411) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Secretary’s view on sanctions, and his opinion that if an act of aggression is committed there must be an instantaneous world reaction.
639
Sept. 4 (288) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Conversation with Eden, who said that all the small powers had declared themselves in favor of application of the Covenant, and who also spoke of the nature of his dealings with Laval and Mussolini on the Ethiopian matter.
640
Sept. 4 (291) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that the award of the Arbitration Commission has been transmitted to the League Council; quotation of section containing findings on the Walwal incident.
641
Sept. 4 (292) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information from Potter as to the procedures in drawing up the award, with an indication as to how unanimity was effected.
642
Sept. 4 (293) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of statements made in a public Council meeting by delegates of Great Britain, France, Italy, Ethiopia, and Spain, the British statement including an outline of the proposals submitted to and rejected by Italy at the Paris conversations.
643
Sept. 9 (293) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Advice from confidential source that the proposals presented to Italy at Paris were not transmitted to Ethiopia until a few days ago, and that the Negus has now accepted them as basis for discussion under two conditions.
646
Sept. 9 (563) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
From the Legation in Addis Ababa: Closing of Italian Consulates in Northern Ethiopia and other activity pointing to imminence of Italian offensive.
647
Sept. 14 (299) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Comprehensive report of situation in Geneva during Assembly meetings.
647
Sept. 16 (447) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Secretary’s impressions of meetings in Geneva; his emphasis on importance of concentrating world opinion against Italian aggression, and his explanation of steps taken to protect British nationals in Ethiopia.
649
Sept. 17 (583) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Account of talk with Mussolini, who was found to be irrevocably determined to proceed with his “colonial enterprise”.
652
Sept. 17 (303) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Observations of Eduard Beneš, Czechoslovakian Foreign Minister, on Mussolini as a person and on the growing disaffection toward him in Italy, together with comments on probable future action of the League.
653
Sept. 21 (462) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Belief of Foreign Office official that Italian military operations will begin in the next week, and any endeavor to check Mussolini is now hopeless; analysis of increased tension in England.
654
Sept. 23 (309) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Eden’s opinion that the Committee of Five could not continually make new advances to be repulsed by Mussolini, but that a final effort should be made to make him state his demands publicly and with precision.
655
Sept. 23 (363) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of Ethiopia’s reply to the proposals of the Committee of Five.
(Footnote: Citation to text of proposals.)
656
Sept. 25 (101) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Conversation with the Emperor, who indicated his acceptance of the proposals in principle, his belief that Mussolini had become a little less intransigent, and said he had invited the League to send observers to Ethiopia to prevent possibility of border incidents.
657
Sept. 26 (376) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Circulation by the Secretary General of the League of a telegram from the Emperor indicating withdrawal of Ethiopian troops 30 kilometers from the frontier, and referring to impartial observers requested of the League.
658
Sept. 26 (102) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Analysis of views in Ethiopia relative to the leadership of the British in what they look upon as the first serious attempt to endow the League with adequate power and to demand strict application of the Covenant.
659
Sept. 28 (389) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Reply of Secretary General (text printed) to Ethiopian Emperor’s telegram, indicating appreciation of spirit of decision on troop withdrawal, and careful consideration of matter of impartial observers.
660
Sept. 29 (104) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Reliable information that Emperor will order general mobilization unless assurances are received from the League or the Powers within a day or two.
660
Sept. 30 (400) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Telegram from the Emperor, dated September 28 (text printed), urging Council to take precautions against Italian aggression, and stating that general mobilization cannot be longer delayed, although troops will be kept at a distance from the frontier.
660
Sept. 30 (630) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Summary of statements made by Suvich indicative of official Italian stand on Ethiopian matter on the eve of hostilities; view that there is no indication of willingness to compromise, change plans, or retard preparations.
661

ii. italian invasion of ethiopia; efforts of the league of nations and of france and the united kingdom to end hostilities, october–december, 1935

[Page LXIII] [Page LXIV] [Page LXV] [Page LXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Oct. 2 (408) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Telegram from the Emperor of Ethiopia (text printed) informing League Council that Italian troops have violated Ethiopian frontier and established themselves on Ethiopian territory, and that accessibility of region makes sending of observers possible.
662
Oct. 3 (411) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Message to League from Ethiopian Foreign Minister reporting the bombing of Adowa and Adigrat, with civilian casualties.
662
Oct. 3 (281) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Request for information relative to a press report that the British have offered France a military alliance in exchange for French support of sanctions and use of Toulon as naval base.
663
Oct. 4 (414) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Telegram to League from Ethiopian Foreign Minister (text printed), stating that Italian airplanes bombed the open town of Adowa, throwing first bombs on hospital bearing Red Cross emblem.
663
Oct. 4 (415) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Telegram to League (text printed) from Suvich, Italian Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, denying troop movements as charged in Ethiopian telegram of October 2.
664
Oct. 5 (316) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Explanation of the situation in Geneva, and suggestion, in reply to inquiry, that action on the Ethiopian situation be delayed until a position has been taken by the League or the member states.
664
Oct. 5 (423) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Telegram to League from Suvich (text printed) denying Ethiopian charges of bombardment of civilians and Red Cross hospital.
665
Oct. 5 (112) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Advice that central authorities seem to have situation well in hand in connection with evacuation of Italians; that Italian Minister Vinci is still without instructions.
665
Oct. 7 (442) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Telegram to League from Ethiopian Foreign Minister (text printed) stating that Italian troops had entered Adowa after taking Adigrat, and that thus far Ethiopian troops had not gone into action.
666
Oct. 8 (450) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Ethiopian communication to League (text printed) indicating that Ethiopia will be forced to ask Italian Minister to leave immediately due to his abuse of the privileges extended to him.
666
Oct. 9 (686) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Possible effect on U. S. neutrality in case of Anglo-Italian hostilities, and necessity of prompt action in such an eventuality; relative strength of Great Britain and Italy in the Mediterranean.
667
Oct. 10 (121) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Information from Italian Minister that Ethiopian Government has requested him to make preparations for early departure.
670
Oct. 11 (481) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Explanation of the character of the Committee of Coordination (sanctions committee), and its advantages from the League point of view.
670
Oct. 12 (125) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Refusal of Vinci to leave on special train provided by the Ethiopian Government.
671
Oct. 12 (126) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Advice that Vinci has been removed from his Legation and is being held virtually a prisoner by Ethiopian Government.
672
Oct. 13 (127) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Refusal of Vinci to leave on another special train; reliable information that he has had a nervous breakdown.
672
Oct. 14 (129) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Emperor’s decision to allow Vinci to remain for a few days longer; expression of praise for the consideration shown Vinci by the authorities.
672
Oct. 14 (497) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Further explanation as to the character of the Committee of Coordination, and speculation on the carrying out of obligations under article 16 of the Covenant.
673
Oct. 15 (713) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Advice that Ethiopian Chargé has received instructions from his Government to return to Addis Ababa and was advised by Foreign Office he was at liberty to choose both date of his departure and itinerary.
675
Oct. 29 (925) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Opinions of Laval in connection with the Ethiopian situation and related matters.
675
Nov. 2 (562) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice of Anglo-French exchanges relative to an attempt to bring about a détente between Great Britain and Italy.
676
Nov. 3 (571) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of statements of various countries made at the final meeting of the session of the Coordination Committee.
678
Nov. 3 (154) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Ethiopian concern over secret negotiations alleged to be in progress between Paris, Rome, and London regarding a compromise settlement of conflict; summary of opinions of Emperor and other officials.
679
Nov. 4 (576) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary and discussion of elements in the Ethiopian situation as viewed from Geneva, with emphasis on the rapid response to the proposals of sanctions, and on the tendency to leave action chiefly to the various governments.
681
Nov. 11 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Conversation with the Italian Ambassador, who presented a note concerning the League resolutions in respect to sanctions (infra).
684
Nov. 11 Text of the Note Which the Italian Government Addressed on November 11, 1935, to all the Governments Which, at Geneva, Voted for Sanctions Against Italy
Detailed statement made in protest against the League proceedings for the adoption of sanctions.
684
Nov. 16 (603) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Indication that several methods of replying to the Italian protest are being considered; that probably individual replies will be made in similar terms.
687
Nov. 20 (975) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information concerning French reply (excerpt printed) to Italy’s protest.
688
Dec. 5 (208) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Detailed report of the military situation, including comments on the advantages and disadvantages of the Ethiopians, the size and disposition of their armies, and on the Italian advance.
689
Dec. 9 Status of League Sanction Proposals As Reported From Geneva, to December 9, 1935 (by Proposals)
Lists of countries in which the various sanction proposals relative to Italy are in effect, and information on the position of nonmember states.
695
Dec. 9 (1032) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Unofficial information from Vansittart, British Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, relative to the Hoare-Laval proposals, and his views on the effectiveness of sanctions.
699
Dec. 11 (623) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
General outline by Eden in the House of Commons of the Hoare-Laval proposals.
700
Dec. 11 (646) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report on perturbation over Hoare-Laval conversations and questions regarding what may not have been brought out in Commons debate; attitude of the smaller powers.
701
Dec. 11 (1854) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Manifestations of anxiety and alarm resulting from reports of purported Hoare-Laval agreement.
703
Dec. 12 (649) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Statements by Laval (excerpt printed) and Eden (text printed) of their intention to place proposals before League Council which will decide what is to be done. Opinion that situation is one of confusion and depression.
706
Dec. 12 (356) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Eden’s explanation that apprehension that Mussolini would attack Great Britain and doubtfulness of French support made effort toward conciliation essential; his summary of terms of Hoare-Laval agreement.
708
Dec. 13 (225) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Advice that Anglo-French proposals were submitted to the Emperor.
709
Dec. 13 (653) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Circulation by League Secretariat of text of Anglo-French proposals, communication from Ethiopia in regard to the proposals, and Secretary General’s reply to the latter.
(Footnotes: Citations to texts of proposals and Ethiopian note.)
709
Dec. 16 (1046) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
View of Foreign Office official that the result of efforts to arrive at a plan acceptable to Italy and Ethiopia has been a set-back.
710
Dec. 16 (235) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Information that the Emperor declined to accept or even discuss Anglo-French proposals.
710
Dec. 16 (629) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Conversation with Vansittart, who warned of impending dangers in the European situation resulting from failure to stem aggression, and predicted a European war provoked by Germany within the near future.
711
Dec. 16 (630) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Comments on press reports pertaining to Hoare-Laval proposals of December 8; information from Vansittart on arguments used to obtain Cabinet agreement to send proposals to Rome and Addis Ababa.
712
Dec. 17 (1050) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Account of the defense of the Hoare-Laval proposals by the French Premier and the Foreign Minister during a discussion in the Chamber.
714
Dec. 18 (664) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Ethiopia’s communication to League discussing League procedure in connection with dispute and pointing out that the Hoare-Laval proposals are not consonant with it; Council President’s statement that communication does not constitute reply to proposals.
715
Dec. 18 (665) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Defense of proposals by Eden and Laval at a meeting of the Council, and Ethiopian delegate’s statement, after explaining his country’s position, that Ethiopia would make no reply until the League had studied the proposals.
716
Dec. 18 (240) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Emperor’s statement expressing willingness to facilitate pacific solution of conflict, but indication that acceptance of Hoare-Laval proposals would be cowardice toward his people and betrayal of the League of Nations.
717
Dec. 19 (241) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Departure of last of Italian missionaries without a single instance of ill-treatment.
717
Dec. 19 (243) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Partial text of official Ethiopian reply rejecting Hoare-Laval proposals.
(Footnote: Citation to complete text.)
718
Dec. 20 (244) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Observations on proposals, and on Ethiopian disappointment in British participation in their formulation; also information that British Legation in Ethiopia repeatedly warned its Foreign Office of their unacceptability.
719
Dec. 21 (246) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Summary of Ethiopian comments after Emperor’s rejection of Franco-British proposals.
720
Dec. 21 (637) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British stiffening tone in support of League policy and speculation as to Hoare’s successor.
722
[Page LXVII]

iii. attitude of the united states regarding proposals for invocation of kellogg pact and mediation; appeal by the united states to italy for a peaceful settlement

[Page LXVIII] [Page LXIX] [Page LXX] [Page LXXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 July 3 (51) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Information that Emperor will address a note to the American Minister, invoking Kellogg Pact.
723
July 4 (52) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Emperor’s oral Résumé of events of last 6 months, and request to U. S. Government “to examine means of securing Italy’s observance of engagements as signatory of the Kellogg Pact”; his confirmation of oral statement in writing.
723
July 5 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the British Ambassador, who gave his view of the U. S. proposed reply to Ethiopia, at the request of the Secretary, and also commented on the British, French, and Italian positions relative to Ethiopia.
724
July 5 (31) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Instructions to address a note to the Emperor (text printed) in reply to the note invoking the Kellogg Pact.
725
July 6 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Guarded comment by the French Ambassador upon being given copy of U. S. reply which he had requested.
726
July 6 (53) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Résumé of Foreign Minister’s note of July 3, confirming Emperor’s oral statement invoking Kellogg Pact.
726
July 6 (55) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Advice of delivery of note as instructed in Department’s No. 31, July 5.
727
July 7 (344) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Appearance of text of U. S. reply to Ethiopia in the Italian press; also press reports that in reply to British note the Department will say the United States will not be a party to sanctions.
(Footnote: Reference to Department’s telegram No. 111, July 9.)
727
July 8 Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation With the French Ambassador
Ambassador’s statement, upon inquiry by the Secretary, that he had no information as to his Government’s position on the Italian-Ethiopian problem but would try to secure it.
728
July 9 (347) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Italian expressions of satisfaction with attitude of the U. S. Government as set forth in its recent note, in contrast to their position on the British attitude.
729
July 9 (111) To the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Advice that no note has been received from the British Government and no statement made such as mentioned in Chargé’s telegram No. 344, July 7.
729
July 11 (58) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Satisfaction of Emperor with American reply.
729
July 11 (175) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information of Secretary’s conversation with Italian Ambassador Rosso, indicating U. S. increasing concern over situation relative to Ethiopia, and particular interest in international arrangements to maintain peace; instructions to inform Foreign Secretary of position.
730
July 11 (354) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Inquiry as to authenticity of a report that the U. S. Government notified the Italian Government that it would regard with “extreme misgivings” any step by Italy which would bring about war in Ethiopia.
730
July 13 (49) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Secretary’s efforts to correct press reports that in certain foreign opinion the Briand-Kellogg Pact is dead because of U. S. refusal to invoke it; text of press statement.
(Instructions to repeat to Geneva, and indication that London and Paris have been informed.)
731
July 16 (322) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Communication of substance of Department’s No. 175, July 11, to Foreign Secretary, who expressed his gratitude and suggested the advantage of conveying message directly to Mussolini.
732
July 31 (198) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Statement on the Ethiopian situation contemplated by the President (text printed); instructions to inform Foreign Office of its contents.
732
Aug. 1 (349) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Office appreciation for advance information on President’s statement.
(Footnote: Information that statement was issued August 1.)
733
Aug. 5 (69) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Audience with the Emperor, during which he expressed gratitude for President’s statement.
733
Aug. 8 (43) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
President’s receipt of telegram from the Emperor (text printed) conveying thanks for his statement of August 1; instructions to acknowledge its receipt, expressing appreciation.
733
Aug. 12 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Conversation with British Ambassador, who expressed Foreign Office satisfaction over President’s interest in Ethiopian crisis.
734
Aug. 15 (213) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Desire to be kept informed on developments at Paris meeting between British, French, and Italian representatives, in order to determine possible further action within limits of the Kellogg Pact.
735
Aug. 17 (697) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Failure to make progress at Paris meetings; suggestion of a statement to the Italian Ambassador by the President or the Secretary that any failure to attain a peaceful result would be viewed by the United States as a world calamity.
735
Aug. 17 (699) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Hope of British representatives at Paris meetings that the U. S. Government would reenforce at Rome the idea of world interest in the maintenance of peace.
736
Aug. 17 (135) To the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Inquiry as to whether Mussolini is in Rome, and whether Chargé could deliver a confidential message to him immediately.
737
Aug. 17 (493) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Possible effects of a message such as suggested by the Chargé in France in his No. 697, August 17, to the Department; suggestion that, if message is decided upon, it be withheld from publication.
737
Aug. 17 (494) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Advice that an audience with Mussolini has been requested.
738
Aug. 18 (495) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Comments relative to Italy’s position that the conflict with Ethiopia is morally justified.
738
Aug. 18 (136) To the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Secretary’s message to Mussolini (text printed) prepared at the direction of the President, expressing hope for a peaceful settlement of the controversy.
(Copy to Paris to be shown confidentially to the British and French.)
739
Aug. 19 (500) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Mussolini’s comments on U. S. message, including statement that it was too late to avoid armed conflict, but that if Italy were allowed to settle the conflict without interference, world peace would not be endangered.
739
Aug. 19 (708) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Communication to French and British representatives at Paris meeting of U. S. message to Mussolini, and their comments.
742
Aug. 20 (501) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Presentation to Suvich of copy of President’s message to Mussolini; Suvich’s assertion that the case would be presented to the League, and that Italy did not wish to withdraw from the League.
743
Sept. 10 (92) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Transmittal of Ethiopian oral inquiry as to whether the United States would be willing to mediate between Italy and Ethiopia if Italy accepts such mediation.
744
Sept. 11 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far Eastern Affairs to the Secretary of State
Observations leading to opinion that early decision as to a public statement of American position regarding the impending hostilities (with mention of Kellogg Pact) is of utmost importance.
744
Sept. 12 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far Eastern Affairs to the Secretary of State
Urging of immediate decision on the issuance of a statement, in view of strong position taken by Sir Samuel Hoare in Geneva speech.
746
Sept. 12 Statement to the Press by the Secretary of State
Text of statement recapitulating U. S. Government’s past efforts toward a peaceful settlement of the Italo-Ethiopian dispute, and explaining its present attitude.
746
Sept. 12 (572) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Ambassador’s outline of a plan for a peaceful solution of the Ethiopian conflict outside the scope of the League of Nations.
(Footnote: Secretary’s reply that the United States could not take steps suggested.)
749
Sept. 12 (56) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Instructions to make oral reply to the recent Ethiopian inquiry, stating that U. S. mediation would seem to be impracticable, since the dispute is before the League of Nations for consideration.
751
Sept. 17 (1318) From the Ambassador in Italy
Detailed account of a conversation with Mussolini during which the Ambassador, speaking on his own authority, suggested that Mussolini make his own proposal at Geneva for a four-power pact, treating European problems as a whole; assertion that Mussolini gave the impression of a determined man who had made an irrevocable decision to proceed in Ethiopia.
752
Sept. 17 (96) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Ethiopian appreciation of Secretary’s press statement and message; explanation that Ethiopian inquiry as to mediation was based on assumption that League action would fail.
761
Sept. 20 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a Conversation With the Italian Ambassador
Observations of the Ambassador upon presentation of an informal memorandum (text printed) which summarizes past relations between Italy and Ethiopia and attempts to justify Italian action.
762
Sept. 25 (472) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Discussion with the Foreign Secretary concerning the positions of various powers in the Italo-Ethiopian situation, with special attention to the British and U. S. attitudes.
766
Sept. 27 (270) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Exposition of Department’s views on various matters in connection with the Italo-Ethiopian controversy, for use in any further conversations with British officials.
767
Sept. 29 (106) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Suggestion that Department may wish to inform the Italian Ambassador of U. S. disappointment that Italy should turn its back on the whole postwar structure for the maintenance of peace in ruthless pursuit of expansionist aims.
768
Oct. 1 (62) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Résumé of steps taken by the U. S. Government in the interest of peace.
769
Oct. 10 (470) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report that Italian delegate to League drew parallel between Italy’s present position and the British reservation to the Kellogg Pact. British informal memorandum (text printed) concerning the British reservation.
770
Oct. 11 (513) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Conversation with the Foreign Secretary, who suggested three alternative courses for action by the signatories of the Kellogg Pact.
772
Oct. 13 To President Roosevelt (tel.)
Reply to President’s inquiry as to exact language of Kellogg Pact under which it can be invoked; quotation of pertinent provisions, and summary of U. S. record relative to it. Submittal, for approval, of a draft telegram to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (infra).
(Footnote: President’s approval of draft telegram.)
773
Oct. 14 (299) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Opinions in connection with possible courses of action under the Kellogg Pact.
775
Oct. 30 (147) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Summary of Ethiopian views on U. S. policies; Chargé’s emphasis, in conversations with the Emperor and others, on fact that U. S. neutrality legislation has its origin in desire of the American people not to be drawn into war, and has no specific relation to Italo-Ethiopian dispute.
776
Oct. 31 (88) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Quotation of pertinent documents which clarify U. S. position relative to collective efforts among states for the preservation of peace.
777
[Page LXXII]

iv. cancellation by the standard vacuum oil company of a concession in ethiopia upon the advice of the department of state

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Aug. 30 (84) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Advice of the signing of a petroleum concession between the Ethiopian Government and the African Exploration and Development Corp., understood to be a subsidiary of the Standard Vacuum Oil Co.; summary of terms.
778
Aug. 31 From the British Chargé
Information that the British Government is not in favor of any agreement, such as the oil concession currently reported in the press, which might aggravate the Italo-Ethiopian controversy.
778
Aug. 31 (236) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Secretary’s statement at press conference that United States had no advance information that the American firm was seeking an oil concession in Ethiopia.
779
Sept. 2 (86) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Opinion, expressed in reply to questions relative to oil concession, that the matter was purely commercial and without political significance; request for approval and guidance.
780
Sept. 3 (240) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Secretary’s reply at press conference (text printed) that U. S. policy toward Italo-Ethiopian controversy will be maintained as before, regardless of oil concession transaction, which was made without consultation with the Government.
780
Sept. 3 (241) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Decision of Standard Vacuum Oil Company, after a conference of its representatives with the Secretary, to abandon concession; text of Secretary’s statement to the press.
781
Sept. 3 (52) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Emperor of the situation, advising him that the company will transmit to him as soon as possible a formal written notice of intention to abandon concession.
782
Sept. 4 (88) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Conversation with the Emperor, who expressed his regret over the abandonment of the concession which he had intended as proof of his friendly feelings toward the United States; request for authorization to give certain assurances to the Emperor.
783
Sept. 5 (424) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Expression of gratitude by Foreign Office officials for the prompt action of the Department.
783
Sept. 5 (53) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Authorization to give assurances to the Emperor, stressing the fact that U. S. intervention in the oil concession matter was motivated solely by the desire to preserve peace.
784
[Page LXXIII]

v. application of the neutrality laws of the united states

[Page LXXIV] [Page LXXV] [Page LXXVI] [Page LXXVII] [Page LXXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Apr. 27 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Explanation to the Italian Ambassador, in reply to his representations, that the President is without authority, in the absence of specific legislation, to stop shipment of Ford motor cars to Ethiopia.
784
May 2 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Italian Ambassador’s reference to reports that large supplies of arms and ammunition were being purchased by Ethiopia in the United States; Under Secretary’s doubt that the reports are accurate.
786
June 15 (299) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Information from Foreign Office official that Ethiopia has placed large orders for Ford and Chevrolet trucks, and his hope that some means might be found to discourage American manufacturers from filling such orders.
786
June 19 (305) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Publication in Italian press of New York news despatch indicating U. S. decision to recall Chargé from Ethiopia and make a neutrality declaration.
787
June 19 (101) To the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Advice that there are no treaties or statutes restricting the exportation of arms from the United States to either Italy or Ethiopia.
788
July 18 (60) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Emperor’s public speech before Parliament denouncing Italian aggression, and his intention to go to the front; pledge of safety to foreigners.
788
July 23 (61) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Italian Minister’s refusal to attend Emperor’s birthday reception.
789
Aug. 28 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Italian Ambassador’s interpretation of Senate Joint Resolution 173—the neutrality legislation—as being directed, perhaps unintentionally, against Italy.
789
[Sept. 25] To President Roosevelt
Information that a proclamation has been drawn up in accordance with section 1 of the Joint Resolution of Congress approved August 31, proclaiming an embargo on arms destined to belligerents, in case hostilities break out.
(Footnote: Information that undated proclamation was signed by the President, for use in case occasion should arise during his absence from Washington.)
790
Oct. 3 To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (circ. tel.)
Request for any information which would have a bearing upon the President’s decision as to whether war has broken out or is in progress.
(Footnote: The same, mutatis mutandis, to Paris, Rome, and Geneva; similar instruction to Addis Ababa.)
790
Oct. 3 (644) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Italian press communiqué declaring Ethiopian general mobilization a threat to Italian troops in Africa, stating that the Italian High Command in Eritrea had been ordered to act, and that Italian troops are occupying advanced positions beyond their lines; Ethiopian Emperor’s telegram informing League of Italian bombing raids, causing death of Ethiopian civilians.
791
Oct. 4 (647) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Press reports indicating the outbreak of hostilities; suggestion that, if reports seem sufficient to serve as basis for a neutrality proclamation, the proclamation be issued before the League Council takes action.
792
Oct. 4 (492) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Press reports of military operations in Ethiopia; inquiry at Foreign Office as to whether it considers that a state of war exists.
793
Oct. 4 (185) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Inquiry as to probability of League Council’s deciding that a state of war exists in Ethiopia.
793
Oct. 4 (493) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that British Government does not consider that a state of war exists.
794
Oct. 4 (285) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain basis of British view.
794
Oct. 4 From President Roosevelt (tel.)
Instructions relative to neutrality proclamations and preparation of a draft statement to the public, in case issuance of proclamations becomes necessary.
794
Oct. 5 (111) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Information that technically no state of war exists.
795
Oct. 5 (498) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information that attitude of British Government is based upon legal considerations since no declaration of war exists.
795
Oct. 5 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Telephone conversation with the Counselor of Embassy in the United Kingdom, asking him to ascertain Foreign Office opinion on a statement (text printed) planned for simultaneous release with the President’s arms embargo proclamation.
795
Oct. 5 Memorandum by the Assistant to the Secretary of State
Telephone message from the Counselor of Embassy in London indicating that British Government has no objection to issuance of proclamations.
797
Oct. 5 From President Roosevelt (tel.)
Authorization to take action on arms embargo proclamation.
797
Oct. 5 To President Roosevelt (tel.)
Advice of readiness to act but awaiting further comment in reply to earlier message, infra.
798
Oct. 5 (11) To President Roosevelt (tel.)
Suggested statement (text printed) for simultaneous release with arms embargo proclamation, advising U. S. citizens to refrain from transactions with belligerents.
798
Oct. 5 From President Roosevelt (tel.)
Approval of statement to accompany arms embargo proclamation; belief that a proclamation (under section 6 of Neutrality Act) relating to American passenger travel on belligerent vessels, should also be issued.
800
Oct. 5 From President Roosevelt (tel.)
Further reasons why proclamation under section 6 should be issued.
800
Oct. 6 To President Roosevelt (tel.)
Advice that proclamation regarding travel on belligerent ships was given to the press concurrently with arms embargo proclamation.
801
Oct. 6 (161) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Suggestion of precautionary measures to protect American citizens in case of Italian reaction against the President’s proclamations.
801
Oct. 7 Memorandum by the Chief of the Office of Arms and Munitions Control
Conversation with French Embassy official concerning powers of the President to extend embargo coverage, and future U. S. policy.
801
Oct. 9 Memorandum by the Chief of the Office of Arms and Munitions Control
Inquiry from French Embassy about reports of detention at American ports of ships bound for Djibouti; explanation that reports were probably based on orders to customs officials to ensure enforcement of the President’s embargo proclamation.
802
Oct. 9 (SC)A 14–6) From the Chief of Naval Operations
Despatch from Naval Attaché in Italy (text printed) inquiring whether American merchant vessels may be searched on the high seas by belligerents and whether rights under laws of war may be exercised.
803
Oct. 10 Statement for the Press by the Secretary of State
Elaboration on the President’s statement concerning Americans trading with belligerents at their own risk.
803
Oct. 10 (688) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Italian reaction to neutrality proclamation. Explanation to Suvich, who made inquiry, that the warning of Americans to refrain from traveling on belligerent ships was a measure to keep America out of the conflict.
804
Oct. 11 To the Secretary of the Navy
Suggestion that Naval Attaché in Rome be informed that since a state of war exists between Italy and Ethiopia, both countries are entitled to belligerent rights.
804
Oct. 15 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Suggestion that U. S. position be clarified to the Ambassador in Italy in view of his statements (text printed) relative to U. S. policy in case of a conflict between Great Britain and Italy.
805
Oct. 16 (174) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Comments on phraseology of the Neutrality Act indicating the President’s wide discretionary powers; emphasis on importance of not interpreting or undertaking to announce U. S. possible future attitude or course of action.
806
Oct. 16 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a Conversation With the Italian Ambassador
Ambassador’s concern over Federal Reserve Bank’s inquiry relative to Italian banking operations, and over alleged one-sided operation of the Neutrality Act. Under Secretary’s explanation of background and operation of U. S. neutrality policy.
807
Oct. 17 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Conversation with the Acting Secretary of the Treasury, who explained the activities of the Federal Reserve Bank which had caused Italian Ambassador’s concern.
(Explanation conveyed to the Ambassador orally.)
810
Oct. 18 (135) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Request by the Foreign Minister, as head of the Ethiopian Red Cross, that permission be granted for the exportation of several American ambulance planes for use in Ethiopia.
811
Oct. 18 (78) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Advice that the President has no authority to permit exceptions to section 1 of the Neutrality Act and that exportation of airplanes for use of Ethiopian Red Cross would be contrary to law.
811
Oct. 22 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Telephone conversation with Ethiopian Consul General, informing him of the illegality of plane shipments to Ethiopia through Canada.
811
Oct. 30 Statement to the Press by President Roosevelt
Summary of steps taken to enforce Neutrality Resolution; belief that Americans will refrain from taking advantage of tempting trade opportunities which would prolong war; indication that the Government is keeping informed on exports to both belligerents.
812
Oct. 30 Statement for the Press by the Secretary of State
Indication that Government is keeping track of exports to belligerent countries; restatement of U. S. position on trade with the belligerents.
813
Nov. 5 (195) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Request for views on the effect which imposition of sanctions may have on living conditions in Italy and on Americans residing there; information for use in answering inquiries as to desirability of American travel in Italy.
813
Nov. 6 (804) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Italian determination to boycott countries applying sanctions; evidence that purchases are shifting from British to American firms.
814
Nov. 7 (811) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Reply to inquiry as to effect of imposition of sanctions.
815
Nov. 13 (200) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Request that American Consulates in Italy be instructed to suspend all activities in connection with trade promotion and to inform American exporters that the Department cannot facilitate trade with the belligerents.
(Similar telegram to the Minister Resident in Ethiopia.)
818
Nov. 15 Statement by the Secretary of State Regarding Transactions With Belligerents
Reiteration of U. S. policy, and comment on recent increase in export of certain commodities as contrary to this policy and to the spirit of the Neutrality Act.
819
Nov. 18 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Representations by the Italian Ambassador concerning the shipment of fuel oil contracted for by Italy to be shipped in the tanker Ulysses; explanation that ships on which the U. S. Government holds mortgages or liens cannot be subjected to risks of trade with the belligerents.
819
Nov. 18 (843) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Changing attitude in Italy toward the United States, placing United States in category with sanctionist countries, due to American policy of prevention of trade with belligerents.
820
Nov. 19 (204) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Emphasis on fact that all U. S. measures have been taken independently and are in accordance with the spirit and intent of the Neutrality Act and can in no sense be considered in the nature of sanctions.
821
Nov. 21 (848) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Suvich’s objection to Secretary’s statement of November 15 as a departure from strict neutrality; explanation of U. S. point of view. Request for guidance with regard to the treaty of 1871, in case any inquiries are made.
822
Nov. 22 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Italian Ambassador’s presentation of his Government’s view that the various U. S. official declarations, particularly the Secretary’s statement of November 15, were an extension and aggravation of the meaning of the Neutrality Act of August 31, principally detrimental to Italy, and were also contrary to the letter and spirit of the treaty of 1871; detailed account of conversation.
(Footnote: Excerpts from memorandum telegraphed to Rome and Addis Ababa; also to Paris for transmission to Berlin, Geneva, and London.)
826
Nov. 22 Memorandum by the Chief of the Office of Arms and Munitions Control
Conversation with the Italian Ambassador, who made representations in regard to the tanker Ulysses, and denounced Great Britain for her part in the application of sanctions.
833
Dec. 11 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
President’s desire to leave the decision in the Ulysses question to the Departments of State and Commerce.
(Footnote: Decision of the two Departments to allow the vessel to proceed.)
835

vi. refusal of the united states to associate itself with league of nations sanctions against italy

[Page LXXIX] [Page LXXX] [Page LXXXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Sept. 18 (588) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Expression of hope that the U. S. Government will not associate itself with sanctions if invoked at Geneva, but will follow an independent course.
836
Sept. 20 (262) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that recent Joint Resolution of Congress provides for an arms embargo to belligerent nations, and that the United States would not join in the imposition of sanctions upon any nation involved in Italo-Ethiopian controversy.
(Request that copies be sent to Paris and Geneva.)
836
Oct. 3 (412) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Assertion by a Council member that “some consideration” is being given to soliciting American participation in possible operations by airplane of “impartial observers.”
838
Oct. 8 (448) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Account of views of various countries on non-member participation in contemplated sanctions committee.
838
Oct. 8 (323) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Informal talk with two officials of the French Foreign Office, during which sanctions and general political matters were considered.
839
Oct. 9 (325) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Analysis of the pros and cons of possible U. S. participation in the work of the Committee of Coordination, and information that invitation might come immediately.
841
Oct. 9 (188) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Advisability of League’s realization that United States has already taken definite policy steps and is disposed to pursue an independent course; instructions to convey this point of view to Secretary General and selected delegations.
(Sent also to Paris and London.)
843
Oct. 10 (326) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Conversation with Secretary General, and with British and French representatives, who agreed that they would not acquiesce in the issuance of an invitation to the United States.
843
Oct. 12 (420) To the Chargé in France (tel.)
Tran mittal of condensed commentaries on Italo-Ethiopian dispute from American missions in Geneva and London as an appraisal of the current situation.
(Instructions to repeat partially to Geneva and entirely to Rome.)
844
Oct. 15 (508) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Intention, unless otherwise instructed, to discourage the Committee of Coordination from approaching the United States in regard to measures now being formulated.
845
Oct. 17 (129) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions to counteract European newspaper rumors of U. S. cooperation with foreign governments or peace agencies by imparting information on U. S. policy, including the fact that the U. S. Government is proceeding on its own initiative, independently of others.
(To be repeated to London, Paris, and Rome.)
846
Oct. 20 (336) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Information of a proposed statement to be made by the chairman in a meeting of the Committee of Eighteen, arguing “community of interests, material and moral” of signatories of the Kellogg Pact.
848
Oct. 21 (338) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Communication to the Secretary of State (text printed) from Vasconcellos, President of the Committee of Coordination, transmitting documents relative to Italo-Ethiopian dispute, and inviting comments or notifications of any action taken.
849
Oct. 22 (539) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
List of ten other non-member countries to which Vasconcellos’ communication was sent.
850
Oct. 22 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Inquiry of the Italian Ambassador concerning possible nature of U. S. reply to Vasconcellos’ communication, and his indication of the attitude of other countries relative to sanctions against Italy.
850
Oct. 26 (193) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Reply to be made to the President of the Committee of Coordination (text printed), indicating U. S. policy in Italo-Ethiopian controversy; information that text is being released to the press on October 27.
852
Nov. 2 (343) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Vasconcellos’ acknowledgment (text printed) of U. S. note of October 26.
854
Nov. 4 (195) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Reference to press reports that Coordination Committee is considering a proposal to prohibit shipments of certain commodities to Italy; instructions as to U. S. position if inquiries are made.
854
Nov. 5 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Telephone conversation with the Minister in Switzerland, stressing importance of the Coordination Committee’s avoiding any approach to U. S. Government in connection with its plans for an embargo on coal, iron, steel, and oil to Italy.
855
Nov. 6 (349) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Suggestion of an immediate announcement that publicity will be given to U. S. shipments to belligerents.
857
Nov. 6 (196) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Advice that full details of U. S. trade with belligerents will be available promptly.
858
Nov. 7 (352) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Transmittal of a letter from Vasconcellos (text printed) together with enclosed documentation of the first and second sessions of the Coordination Committee.
858
Nov. 20 (353) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Information that Vasconcellos is considering postponement of meeting of Committee of Eighteen, which was to act on embargo extension, for fear of jeopardizing negotiations by the British and French with Mussolini.
858
Nov. 20 (76) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
View that any procedure in connection with the Committee program would have no relation to any action taken by U. S. Government.
859
Undated Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone Conversation
Between the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs and the Counselor of Embassy in London, November 27: Department’s concern over press reports indicating U. S.-British agreement on oil sanctions against Italy; advisability of explaining to press representatives that the independence of American policy precludes any such action.
859
Nov. 29 (625) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Comments by Secretary General on postponement of the meeting of the Committee of Eighteen, and his opinion that the French did not wish to face the oil embargo issue.
862
Nov. 30 (629) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Inquiry by British member of the Experts Committee as to U. S. position on questions concerning action on an extension of the embargo against Italy; reply that the United States could not take a position on matters solely within competence of the League.
864
Nov. 30 From the British Embassy
British appreciation of U. S. efforts to prevent the exploitation of war for private profit; suggestion that it might be wise to postpone the actual oil embargo in view of British negotiations with Mussolini for a peaceful settlement.
865
Dec. 2 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Explanation to British Ambassador that U. S. neutrality policy had been developed independently and without any relationship to sanctions or other movements of other governments or the League.
866
Dec. 2 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Representations by the Italian Ambassador implying that the United States was in some material way tied up with the sanctions movement.
867
Dec. 2 (141) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Reference to Consul’s recent conversations with Vasconcellos, and concern over European press reports linking U. S. actions with steps taken by the League; request that U. S. position be clarified.
869
Dec. 4 (638) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that Vasconcellos derives what he believes to be U. S. policy from unofficial sources.
870
Dec. 4 (144) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions to discuss U. S. policy with Vasconcellos at earliest opportunity.
871
Dec. 5 From the British Embassy
Concern over large increase in American oil exports to Italy, and its relation to possible League sanctions; implied question as to U. S. future course.
871
Dec. 7 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Reply to British Ambassador (text printed) pertaining to U. S. policy on shipments of oil and other essential war materials to belligerents.
872
Dec. 10 (644) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Conversation with Vasconcellos in which the application of an oil embargo againt Italy was discussed, and U. S. policy concerning the Italo-Ethiopian situation made clear.
874
Dec. 21 (639) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that, on representations of Yugoslav Government, the British Government proposes to grant to Yugoslavia, for the duration of sanctions, certain trade concessions; British trust that United States will waive its most-favored-nation rights.
875
Dec. 23 (398) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office that in pursuit of its independent policy relative to Italo-Ethiopian controversy, the U. S. Government must reserve its most-favored-nation rights.
876
Dec. 31 (643) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that British trade arrangement with Yugoslavia became effective December 24.
876
[Page LXXXII]

vii. protection of american life and property in ethiopia

[Page LXXXIII] [Page LXXXIV] [Page LXXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 June 26 (27) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Concern over safety of American nationals in the event of hostilities, and discussion of plans for their evacuation.
876
June 29 (49) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Information that some American missionaries are prepared to depart immediately, but that a certain number will insist on remaining.
877
July 2 (29) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Instructions for evacuation of American nationals; information of availability of funds for evacuation of indigent Negro citizens.
878
July 2 To the Consul at Port Said (tel.)
Instructions to secure transportation to New York for ten indigent American Negro citizens.
878
July 6 (54) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Information concerning difficulties in the attempt to evacuate missionaries; Emperor’s promise of all protection possible for foreigners.
879
Aug. 6 (70) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Summary of British plan for protection of British missionaries; intention to make similar arrangements unless instructed otherwise.
879
Aug. 6 (41) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Instructions to advise Americans to leave Ethiopia immediately, but approval of participation in British plan to aid those who insist on remaining.
880
Aug. 10 (44) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Advice that missionary organizations in United States are being urged to take steps toward immediate departure of their personnel from Ethiopia.
880
Aug. 14 (73) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Reasons for reluctance of missionaries to leave; views on safety of foreigners.
881
Aug. 23 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Discussion with Navy representatives, at instigation of the President, of the question of sending a naval vessel to Djibouti to maintain communications with the Legation at Addis Ababa.
882
Aug. 24 (345) To the Chargé in France (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain whether French authorities would object to the early dispatch to Djibouti of an American cruiser equipped to communicate with Addis Ababa and the United States.
883
Aug. 27 (83) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Assurance that the city remains calm, despite fantastic rumors broadcast by foreign correspondents, and that no immediate evacuation has been ordered.
884
Aug. 29 From the Secretary of the International Missionary Council
Inquiries relative to the exemption of medical missionaries from recall and their service with the Ethiopian Red Cross.
884
Aug. 29 (741) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
French disinclination to grant permission for stationing an American cruiser in Djibouti.
885
Sept. 5 (242) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to inquire whether British authorities would object to the presence of an American cruiser at Aden in order to relay messages from Addis Ababa to Washington.
885
Sept. 6 (427) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British willingness to permit an American war vessel to anchor at Aden.
886
Sept. 6 From the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs to the Assistant Secretary of State
Opinion that problems might arise from dispatch of a war vessel to a troubled area, and suggestion that a telegram (infra) be sent to the Chargé in the United Kingdom.
886
Sept. 6 (245) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to inquire whether British authorities would be willing to authorize U. S. use of British radio facilities at Aden, or to permit installation of a relay set at the American Consulate there.
887
Sept. 11 To the Secretary of the International Missionary Council
Reply to inquiry of August 29, citing article 11 of the Red Cross Convention of 1929, and indicating that continued presence of American missionaries in Ethiopia is not conducive to the best interests of the United States.
887
Sept. 12 (434) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British Admiralty’s view that the outer harbor at Aden would provide suitable anchorage for a cruiser.
888
Sept. 14 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Conversation with the Chief of Naval Operations who indicated that a suitable radio set would be installed in the Legation at Addis Ababa for maintaining effective communication between United States and Ethiopia.
889
Sept. 25 (466) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information that the British Admiralty is prepared to relay U. S. Government messages between U. S. Legation at Addis Ababa and Aden wireless station at certain specified hours.
890
Sept. 28 Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Suggestion by Navy Department official that the matter of use of British Government facilities at Aden be left in abeyance pending further study of U. S. facilities.
890
Oct. 1 (279) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that the Navy Department hopes to communicate directly between Addis Ababa and Washington, but would like to have British offer left open for possible future use.
(Footnote: Information that direct communications were established October 29.)
891
Oct. 3 (108) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Ethiopian proclamation of general mobilization, and start of hostilities; arrangements for protection of American nationals.
891
Oct. 4 (154) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Information that American institutions in Ethiopia have been advised to display large American flags on roofs of their buildings; instructions to express to Foreign Office hope that Italian military authorities in East Africa may be advised.
892
Oct, 6 (115) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Decision of Diplomatic Corps to ask their respective Governments to impress on Italy the fact that Addis Ababa and Diredawa are open cities, containing several thousand foreign nationals.
892
Oct. 11 (168) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Request for report of any action taken by Governments represented at Addis Ababa concerning the bombardment of open cities.
892
Oct. 12 (693) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Information that as yet no Government except France has made representations, although several Ambassadors have received instructions.
893
Oct. 12 (697) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Advice that representatives of all foreign Governments represented at Addis Ababa have made oral representations concerning the bombardment of open cities, based, with one exception, on humanitarian motives.
893
Oct. 12 (170) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Instructions to make oral representations on humanitarian grounds.
894
Oct. 14 (708) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Compliance with Department’s instructions for oral representations regarding bombardment of open cities.
894
Oct. 16 (175) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Inquiry as to whether representations of all diplomatic representatives included the word “bombardment”.
894
Oct. 17 (729) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Reply that the matter of bombardment was specifically mentioned in representations, but that emphasis was placed on the open character of the cities.
894
Oct. 17 (731) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Receipt of information that Italy will issue a communiqué stating intention not to move on either of the open cities provided no advantage is taken to assemble troops and ammunition there.
895
Nov. 18 (605) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice of contributions for Ethiopian Red Cross from Red Cross organizations of various countries; Italian attitude toward the organization “American Aid for Ethiopia”, based on articles 10 and 11 of the Geneva Convention of 1906.
895
Dec. 6 (209) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Advice that Dessie was bombed by Italian planes and that American Seventh Day Adventist Hospital, marked with Red Cross, had been struck.
896
Dec. 7 (641) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Ethiopian Emperor’s telegram to the League, protesting against Italian indiscriminate air bombardments.
897
Dec. 7 (211) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Report that some 40 incendiary and explosive bombs were dropped on American mission and hospital compound at Dessie although hospital was easily distinguishable by red crosses and large American flag.
897
Dec. 8 (212) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Statement signed by two American doctors of the American mission at Dessie describing damage by Italian air raid on hospital and ambulances clearly marked with red crosses.
898
Dec. 9 (888) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Editorial in Italian newspaper Messaggero, stating that reports about the bombardment of an American Red Cross hospital at Dessie were pure anti-Italian propaganda.
898
Dec. 9 (890) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
News despatch in Piccolo (excerpt printed) stating that Italian planes attacked not a city but a military base bristling with cannons and machine guns.
899
Dec. 9 (129) To the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Inquiry as to affiliation of the mission hospital at Dessie with the Ethiopian Red Cross, in order to determine right of hospital to use Red Cross emblem.
899
Dec. 9 (145) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Request for any information available at Geneva pertinent to bombing of the American hospital at Dessie and to question of its affiliation with International Red Cross.
900
Dec. 10 (645) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information relative to the bombing of Dessie, including a summary of the Italian position, and a statement of the International Red Cross that the American mission hospital at Dessie is affiliated with the Ethiopian Red Cross and entitled to Red Cross protection.
900
Dec. 11 (218) From the Chargé in Ethiopia (tel.)
Enumeration of hospitals incorporated in the Ethiopian Red Cross and registered at Geneva as such.
902
Dec. 12 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs to the Secretary of State
Analysis of the question presented by the bombardment of the American mission hospital at Dessie; conclusion that it would be wise to refrain from making any protest to the Italian Government at this time.
903
Dec. 27 (1541 Pol.) From the Consul at Geneva
Reasons for disinclination of the International Committee of the Red Cross to press the matter of the bombardment of the Dessie hospital any further.
905
[Page LXXXVI]

IRAN

Preliminary Discussions Respecting a Trade Agreement Between the United States and Iran

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Apr. 2 Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Conversation between the Iranian Minister and the Assistant Secretary of State regarding a proposed U. S.-Iranian trade agreement in which Iranian willingness was indicated to reduce or eliminate the “exporters exchange” for automotive dealers in return for reduced U. S. import duty on Iranian rugs.
909
Apr. 18 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Receipt of further instructions by the Iranian Minister from his Government to press for a trade agreement; his desire for reduction of U. S. tariff on Iranian rugs, dried fruit and caviar, and reminder that U. S. automotive products are on the free list.
910
May 15 (14) To the Minister in Iran (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Ministry that the Legation is prepared to initiate formal trade discussions subject to certain conditions.
910
Nov. 21 (37498/4083) From the Iranian Ministry for Foreign Affairs to the American Legation in Iran
Iranian willingness to leave unchanged, for a 5–months’ period, the present condition of automobile trade in order to enable the U. S. Government to determine a possible tariff reduction on Iranian rugs.
912
Dec. 14 Memorandum by the Second Secretary of Legation in Iran to the Minister
Comprehensive summary, with tabulation, of existing trade with Iran, and conclusion that both countries would benefit from a trade agreement.
913

Reservation of American Rights Against Iran’s Attempt by Unilateral Action To Extend Its Exclusive Jurisdiction Over Coastal Waters Beyond the Three-Mile Limit

Date and number Subject Page
1934 Aug. 28 (193) From the Minister in Persia
Transmittal of a new law (text printed), approved by the Maglis on July 15, 1934, delimiting coastal waters of Persia; reference to U. S. interest because of claims of Persia for sovereignty over the Islands of Bahrein.
(Footnote: Discontinuance of use of the name “Persia” on March 22, 1935.)
916
1935 Feb. 12 From the Secretary of the Navy
Recommendation that the United States decline to recognize any legislation issued by a foreign government which does not conform to the generally accepted principle which limits territorial waters of a state to three marine miles.
918
Mar. 25 (108) To the Minister in Iran
Instructions to deliver to the Foreign Minister a note (text printed) setting forth U. S. attitude with respect to the provisions of the law of July 15, 1934.
918
[Page LXXXVII]

LIBERIA

Recognition by the United States of the Administration of President Barclay Upon Evidence of the Liberian Government’s Intention To Carry Out Certain Reforms

[Page LXXXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 16 (2) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
For Harry A. McBride, Assistant to the Secretary of State: Information as to difficulties between the Kru tribe and the Liberian Government, and request for views and instructions in connection with British Chargé’s proposal of a settlement.
920
Jan. 17 (17) From the British Ambassador
British agreement with U. S. views, expressed in note of October 17, 1934, that President Barclay is entitled to proceed with his own reform plan; continued British preoccupation with problem of the Kru tribes.
921
Jan. 25 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Telephone conversation with First Secretary of the British Embassy, during which differences in U. S. and British approach to the Liberian problems were discussed.
923
Jan. 25 (1) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Summary of British position on Liberian problems and U. S. view that settlement of the Kru difficulty is but one factor in the rehabilitation of the country; instructions as to cooperation with the British in the Kru matter.
924
Mar. 7 (4) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Forthcoming conference between Barclay and Firestone to take up supplementary agreement to Loan Agreement of 1926. Advice that opposition party in national convention chose ex-President King to run against Barclay.
925
Mar. 16 Agreement Between the Government of Liberia and the Finance Corporation of America
Text of agreement, with annexes.
925
Mar. 20 Agreement Between the Government of Liberia and Firestone Plantations Company
Text of agreement.
940
Apr. 3 To the British Ambassador
U. S. intention, in view of improved conditions in Liberia, to favor recognition of President Barclay’s administration, assuming that the Liberian Congress acts favorably on the Agreements of March 16 and 20 and repeals repudiationist legislation; hope that the British Government may wish to consider recognition simultaneously.
943
May 11 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Indication to British Embassy member that Barclay has been elected President, and U. S. reasons for favoring prompt recognition; hope that British Government will consider early recognition.
944
May 14 (5) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Inquiry as to whether there are any reasons to delay recognition after receipt of information that the Liberian Congress has withdrawn its repudiationist legislation.
945
May 17 (14) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Opinion that there are no reasons to delay recognition following certain steps by the Liberian Congress.
946
May 20 (140) From the British Ambassador
British acknowledgment of present Liberian administration’s endeavor to improve internal conditions, but unwillingness to consider recognition in the absence of a settlement of the Kru question.
946
June 3 (8) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Request for information as to prospects for early repeal of repudiationist legislation; President’s approval of recognition of Barclay regime after repeal.
947
June 6 (17) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Advice of Liberian Legislature’s action in ratifying the Firestone agreements and repealing all repudiationist legislation; also of British refusal to recognize Barclay regime until Kru question has been satisfactorily settled.
947
June 8 (18) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Signing of the bills covering the Firestone agreements and repeal legislation by President Barclay.
948
June 8 (133) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to express regret to Foreign Office that Great Britain is not joining the United States in recognizing President Barclay’s administration.
948
June 8 (9) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Note of recognition (text printed) to be presented to President Barclay on June 11; commendation of Chargé’s work.
949

MOROCCO

Objection of the United States to Proposed Modification of the Customs Regime in the French Zone of Morocco

[Page LXXXIX] [Page XC] [Page XCI]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 4 (1) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Information concerning British proposed exchange of notes with France relative to establishment of a quota system in Morocco, and their opinion that the agreement could not have any bearing on U. S. treaty rights or those of any other power in Morocco.
951
Jan. 7 (135) From the Chargé in the Netherlands
Netherland intention to protest French quota system in Morocco upon information that the United States is making such a protest.
952
Jan. 9 (5) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to inquire of the British if it is not their understanding that the proposed exchange of notes is but the initial step toward establishment of a general quota system which would necessitate individual bargaining with France by all nations wishing to trade with Morocco.
953
Jan. 9 (11) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions for conversation with the Foreign Ministry with respect to expiration of the Franco-British accord of 1904.
954
Jan. 12 (13) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
British attitude on special bargaining rights with the French based on their treaties of 1856 with Morocco, and opinion as to the abrogation of extraterritorial rights in Morocco.
954
Jan. 15 (42) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Foreign Office explanation of proposed quota system and tariff changes in Morocco; willingness to conclude agreements with all other signatories of the Act of Algeciras, including United States.
955
Jan. 16 (1529) From the Ambassador in France
French memorandum and appendix (texts printed) treating in detail the contemplated Moroccan tariff and quota matters.
957
Jan. 24 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Indication to the Belgian Ambassador, upon his inquiry, of conditions under which United States might agree to a reasonable increase in the Moroccan tariff rates.
961
Jan. 26 (31) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Franco-Italian discussion relative to a Moroccan quota system; Italian unwillingness to abandon treaty principles, but willingness to discuss establishment of some quota system.
962
Jan. 30 (41) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Advice that Franco-British notes regarding the French Zone of Morocco and Tangier Zone were exchanged on January 29, the effective date to be fixed later.
963
Jan. 31 (79) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Discussion with a French official of U. S. complaints regarding French violations of Moroccan treaties; his desire to know as soon as possible the U. S. attitude toward French proposals (transmitted in despatch No. 1529, January 16).
963
Feb. 2 (43) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Tentative Franco-Italian agreement on establishment of a Moroccan quota system and increase in customs duties.
964
Feb. 9 (47) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Explanation of U. S. attitude, in reply to telegram No. 79, January 31.
965
Feb. 19 (61) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to advise French Government that its proposals are out of harmony with the principle of commercial equality as guaranteed in the Act of Algeciras and with U. S. general trade policy.
966
Feb. 19 (1645) From the Ambassador in France
Two memoranda on the contemplated economic reforms in Morocco (texts printed), and recommendation that United States agree to negotiate with the French.
966
Mar. 1 (171) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French request that United States reconsider objections to the contemplated reforms; indication that French Government is determined to put reforms into effect.
972
Mar. 16 (92) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
U. S. unwillingness to change decision, and instructions to lodge formal protest based on the Act of Algeciras and other treaties.
973
Mar. 18 (213) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Suggestion that formal protest be deferred until certain developments in the double taxation matter are known.
974
Mar. 29 (39) From the Consul at Casablanca
Opposition of Moroccan trade organizations to French economic reform proposals; opinion that in view of the deficiencies of the proposal it may be shelved as unworkable and undesirable.
974
Mar. 30 (828) To the Chargé in France
Observation of contradictory statements of French officials concerning the purpose for economic reforms in Morocco.
977
Apr. 8 (1767) From the Ambassador in France
Delivery of U. S. protest against the institution of proposed modifications of the present customs regime in Morocco.
978
Apr. 11 (1359) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Foreign Office receipt of “indications” that the French Government had decided to abandon efforts to modify the Moroccan customs regime.
979
Apr. 30 From the Danish Legation
Desire for information on U. S. attitude toward French efforts to modify the Moroccan customs regime.
979
May 1 (809) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Advice that U. S. Government has received no official information as to French abandonment of proposed Moroccan economic reforms.
980
May 6 From the French Ministry for Foreign Affairs to the American Embassy in France
Detailed statement, in reply to U. S. protest, explaining reasons for proposed reforms in Morocco, and expressing hope that United States will consider the proposals from a practical rather than a juridical standpoint.
981
May 7 To the Danish Legation
Advice that United States has lodged a formal protest against the proposed modification of the Moroccan customs regime; résumé of developments leading to protest, and points upon which protest was based.
983
May 21 (1885) From the Ambassador in France
Deduction from conversation with member of Italian Embassy, that final acceptance by Italy of the proposed reforms in Morocco seems to depend on how Italian trade will be affected by the quotas and other factors.
986
May 23 (473) From the Chargé in Belgium
Belief of Foreign Office official that such strong opposition has developed on various sides to the French proposals that France may allow the matter to rest for some time to come.
987
June 13 (1504) From the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Foreign Office concern over apparent abandonment by France of economic reform plan in Morocco, and inquiry as to whether United States objected to the plan purely on principle or for other reasons.
988
June 21 (1964) From the Ambassador in France
Recommendation, upon Department’s inquiry, that a formal reply to Foreign Office note of May 6 be withheld in view of developing opposition in Morocco against the economic project, and pending action by the powers signatory to the Act of Algeciras.
989
July 8 (2000) From the Ambassador in France
Expression of disappointment by the British Commercial Counselor that United States opposed economic reforms in Morocco, and desire that the U. S. adopt a more liberal viewpoint toward the project.
989
July 12 (898) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Instructions for reply to British inquiry concerning basis for U. S. objection to Moroccan economic reforms, emphasizing provisions of Act of Algeciras that “economic liberty without any inequality” should be maintained in Morocco.
991
July 17 (599) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Note from the Foreign Ministry, dated July 15, referring to its note of May 6 and inquiring if United States is now disposed to accept the reform plan in principle. Suggestion that reply express willingness to consider an alternative proposal.
992
July 20 (290) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Minister that United States has not changed its opinion regarding the plan, but is willing to consider any alternative which may be in keeping with full commercial equality in Morocco.
992
Aug. 7 From the Chargé in the United Kingdom
British fear that France might challenge the older British and Spanish treaties (1856 and 1861) in order to increase Morocco’s customs revenue.
993
Sept. 18 From the British Embassy
Aide-mémoire stressing ruinous effect of Japanese competition on British cotton exports to Morocco, and outlining the advantages of a quota system in Morocco.
994
Oct. 11 To the British Embassy
Advice that United States is undertaking a study of the problems discussed in British aide-mémoire, and hopes that the major questions of principle and policy may be determined soon.
(Footnote: Information of U. S. reply, April 27, 1936, to British aide-mémoire.)
997
[Page XCII]

MOROCCO

Negotiations Concerning Claims and Proposed Recognition by the United States of the Spanish Zone in Morocco

[Page XCIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Dec. 29 (16) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Instructions to proceed to Madrid to participate in discussions between the U. S. Ambassador and the Spanish Foreign Office concerning settlement of American claims in exchange for recognition of the Spanish Protectorate.
998
1935 Jan. 8 (4) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Information that conferences for recognition of Spanish Morocco are about to begin, and that Foreign Office will enter into examination of 1928 claims.
999
Jan. 10 (638) From the Ambassador in Spain
Discussion with Foreign Office official, who said that the Spanish Government was reluctant to discuss the settlement of claims without also settling the question of the abolition of capitulations; U. S. position of maintaining treaty rights until possible revision by common accord.
999
Jan. 14 (6) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Possibility of compromise agreement based on a five-point formula suggested by Blake; request for instructions.
1001
Jan. 16 (4) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Assumption that formula takes care of special taxes on imported goods; desire that it be clearly understood that question of surrender of capitulations will not enter into present discussion.
1002
Jan. 17 (8) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Request for authorization to promise to discuss, after settlement of claims and recognition, any question raised by Spanish Government.
1003
Jan. 19 (5) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Reluctance to attach any reservations to the agreement concerning recognition and settlement of claims.
1003
Jan. 19 (1) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Comments on the five-point formula for a compromise agreement with Spain, and request for certain clarifications.
1004
Jan. 21 (27) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Foreign Office information that trade negotiations now being conducted in Madrid have no connection with question of relinquishment of British extraterritorial rights in the Spanish Zone of Morocco.
1005
Jan. 23 (1) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Clarification of certain points in the five-point formula, as requested by Department.
1005
Jan. 29 (7) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Message to be transmitted to Blake, giving instructions relative to the five-point formula.
1007
Feb. 6 (1019) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Reasons for desirability of early recognition of Spanish Zone, and analysis of five-point formula; emphasis on the importance of U. S. retention of capitulatory rights in Morocco.
1008
Feb. 21 (15) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Instructions to sound out Spanish regarding their willingness to reach agreement for settlement of the claims matter along lines of points 1, 2, and 3 of formula.
1012
Feb. 25 (15) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Information that claims matter had been referred to the High Commissioner at Tetuan and that delay was due to his indifference to U. S. recognition unless question of capitulations was included in agreement.
1013
Mar. 1 (3) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Appreciation for analysis of the five-point formula and clarification of certain points; further comments on formula and U. S. position regarding claims settlement.
1013
Mar. 6 (96) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Receipt by Foreign Office of Spanish formal request that Great Britain relinquish its extraterritorial rights in Spanish Zone of Morocco; British unwillingness to give up those rights, and suggestion for possible concerted action.
1014
Mar. 8 (48) To the Chargé in the United Kingdom (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Office that present U. S. negotiations with Spain are limited to settlement of claims in exchange for formal recognition of Spanish Zone, and that United States has no present intention of giving up extraterritorial privileges.
1014
Mar. 12 (1275) From the Chargé in the United Kingdom
Foreign Office inquiry as to when the Spanish first indicated a desire to inject question of extraterritorial rights into present negotiations.
1015
Mar. 27 (772) To the Ambassador in the United Kingdom
Advice that Spain first brought up extraterritorial rights early in January. Instructions to reiterate to Foreign Office that United States has no present intention of considering surrender of extraterritorial rights.
1016
July 24 (48) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain from Spanish Government when a decision can be expected in the matter of claims and recognition.
1016
July 27 (51) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Information that unsatisfactory reply has been received from Spanish High Commissioner, and that Foreign Office has placed matter before the Prime Minister.
1017
Oct. 2 (908) From the Ambassador in Spain
Report on efforts to obtain Foreign Office action toward conclusion of negotiations based on the five-point formula.
1017
Nov. 2 (939) From the Ambassador in Spain
Information of an urgent request by the Foreign Ministry to the Presidency of the Council of Ministers for an immediate decision.
1017
[Page XCIV]

Representations by the United States Against Discriminatory Passport Regulations in the Spanish Zone of Morocco

Date and number Subject Page
1934 Dec. 6 (174) To the Ambassador in Spain
Instructions to protest discrimination against American citizens by requiring visas and photographs on entering the Spanish Zone of Morocco while nationals of other countries, notably British and French nationals, are not required to obtain visas.
1018
Dec. 18 (608) From the Ambassador in Spain
Account of conversation with Foreign Office official, and comment that his remarks seemed indicative of the general policy of Spain in Morocco and of its attitude toward the Act of Algeciras.
1020
1935 Feb. 27 (675) From the Ambassador in Spain
Note from the Ministry of State (text printed) indicating willingness to abolish requirement of passport photographs.
1021
July 2 (805) From the Chargé in Spain
Transmittal of a Foreign Office note indicating abolition of the requirement of photographs.
1023
Aug. 23 (274) To the Ambassador in Spain
Instructions for further representations against the visa requirement, insisting that in principle the Spanish Government has no authority in law or treaty provision for such requirement.
(Footnote: Ambassador’s delivery of a note to the Foreign Office September 10.)
1023

TURKEY

Attitude of the United States Toward Efforts by Turkey To Secure Revision of the Regime of the Straits; Consideration of Possible Agreement With Turkey Regarding American Navigation Rights

[Page XCV]
Date and number Subject Page
1935 Apr. 17 (147) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Turkish statement before the League Council indicating desire for modification of the Straits Convention; reservations expressed by representatives of Great Britain, Italy, and France; Soviet representative’s declaration of support.
1026
Apr. 30 (631) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Foreign Minister’s conversation with French Ambassador in order to win French support for revision of Straits Convention; opinion that Turkey will keep matter before Powers until proposals are accepted.
1027
May 18 (644) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Information that recently the Turkish Foreign Minister countered British opposition to rearmament of the Straits by saying that Turkey would willingly refrain from rearming the Straits if the British would sign a treaty to protect them.
1028
May 29 (653) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Account of inspection journey to Izmir, during which the extent of military preparation along the Straits was noted; observations relative to Soviet support of Turkey’s position.
1029
June 26 (688) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Résumé of conversation on various subjects with the Foreign Minister, who said that the Balkan Entente had promised their support of the Turkish position; Turkish willingness to negotiate a special treaty on U. S. transit rights through the Straits in exchange for assistance in protection.
1030
July 3 (695) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Analysis of the factors involved in the Turkish position on revision of the Straits Convention.
1034
Sept. 11 (219) To the Chargé in Turkey
Navy Department’s opinion (text printed) that American freedom of navigation of the Straits can best be safeguarded by a separate formal agreement with Turkey.
1040
Nov. 1 (817) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Likelihood of Turkish favorable attitude toward a separate treaty with United States; suggestion that action be postponed until it becomes evident that Straits Convention will be modified.
1042

Policy of the Department of State To Encourage Multilateral Trade Rather Than To Attempt To Overcome Unfavorable Balance of Trade With Turkey

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Mar. 4 To the Ambassador in Turkey
Explanation, in reply to a letter from the Ambassador, of the disadvantage of trying to balance U. S. trade with Turkey or any particular country; U. S. policy to further, rather than restrict, triangular or multilateral trade.
1043
Mar. 8 From the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs to the Secretary of State
Letter from the Commercial Attaché in Turkey to the Ambassador in Turkey (excerpt printed), expressing opinion that the principle of bilateral trade balances is unsound and inequitable and should not be applied to trade relations between United States and Turkey.
1044
[Page XCVI]

Application With Respect to Turkey of Policy of the United States Not To Encourage American Firms in the Sale of Arms and Munitions of War

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Jan. 9 (514) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Appreciation of the difficulty of determining the meaning of the phrase “arms and munitions” and indication of a tentative definition of the phrase.
1046
Jan. 11 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Discussion with the Vice President of the General Motors Export Company regarding the financing of the proposed purchase by the Turkish Government of 900 trucks for military purposes.
1048
Jan. 14 (1) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Turkish Government’s intention to purchase anti-aircraft searchlights to value of $700,000; inquiry as to whether nature of business will prevent Export-Import Bank from granting credit.
1049
Jan. 15 (4) To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Unfavorable view on assistance by any Government agency in the financing of the sale of arms and implements of war to any foreign government.
1049
Feb. 21 (5) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Turkish Government’s intention to buy 16 Martin bombers, and Prime Minister’s inquiry as to U. S. Government’s authorization for the manufacturer’s early delivery.
1049
Feb. 23 (11) To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Statement that it is not the policy of the United States to encourage export trade in arms and munitions of war.
1050
Mar. 18 (169) To the Ambassador in Turkey
Opinion that, even when commodities purchased by a foreign government do not fall within any recognized definition of arms and munitions of war, the United States should avoid assisting the financing when there is danger that, in case of war, there could be criticism for assisting in military preparations.
1050
May 20 Memorandum by Mr. Henry S. Villard of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Request by Turkish Embassy official for Department’s good offices in persuading the War Department to authorize the early delivery of Martin bombers to Turkey; reply that the Department could not “intervene” with the War Department.
1051
[Page XCVII]

Rejection of Request of the Turkish Government for Assignment of an American Army Officer as Instructor in the Turkish Air Forces

Date and number Subject Page
1935 June 6 From the Turkish Embassy
Turkish General Staff’s desire to invite as instructor to the Army Air School an American General Staff officer, and request that Department contact the proper authorities.
1052
June 7 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Record of conversation with the Turkish Ambassador on June 6.
1052
June 24 To the Turkish Ambassador
Advice from the Chief of Staff that there is no legal authority for compliance with the Turkish request.
1053

Representations by the Turkish Embassy Against Filming the Novel, “The Forty Days of Musa Dagh”

Date and number Subject Page
1935 Sept. 5 From the Turkish Ambassador
Request that the Department exert its influence to preclude filming of Franz Werfel’s novel, The Forty Days of Musa Dagh; opinion that the film would not promote the existing friendly feelings between the peoples of Turkey and the United States.
1053
Sept. 7 To the President of Motion Picture Producers and Distributors of America
Transmittal of copy of the Turkish Ambassador’s note of September 5, and request for assistance in disposing of the question.
1054
Sept. 12 To the Turkish Ambassador
Information from the President of Motion Picture Producers and Distributors of America indicating that “the script has not been finished and will not go into production without the approval of the Turkish Ambassador.”
1055
Oct. 4 From the Turkish Ambassador
Advice of conversation with a representative of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, who admitted that the filming of the novel would be harmful from every standpoint; appreciation of Department’s support.
1055