740.41112A/12–2744: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant)
Washington, January 3,
1945—8 p.m.
56. Reurtel 11469, December 27. Proclaimed List Committee has considered draft circular instruction to British missions eastern hemisphere and is in general agreement but suggests you propose to MEW that the categories described in your paragraph 3 be amended to read seriatim as follows:
- A.
- “Cases in which it is reasonable to expect that deterrent effect can still be exercised during hostilities.” The insertion is suggested to avoid necessity of proving difficult cases and placing too great a burden of proof on the missions.
- B.
- “German owned or controlled firms which have hitherto escaped listing.” Committee believes any firm owned or controlled by Germans should be listed irrespective of its importance.
- C.
- “Persons engaged in important or significant activities involving the holding, concealing or transferring of assets belonging to enemy governments or nationals and any activities involving loot.” The Committee felt that an enemy asset or person might qualify for listing irrespective of the size of the asset or whether the person was an enemy leader. It was also felt that any transaction in loot would be sufficient cause for inclusion in the lists.
- D.
- No change suggested.
- E.
- “Persons engaged in propaganda activity, notorious enemy agents, enemy technicians who may effect safe haven of enemy skills, etc.” Although the British possibly intended to cover suggested Category E in Category A, specific mention of such objectionable persons might assist reporting officers. With regard to enemy technicians, refer to Department’s telegram 9237, November 4. If Black List Committee agrees with above suggested amendments, you are authorized to inform London Coordination Area.
Immediately following telegram transmits Department’s views regarding Confidential Black List policy.
Stettinius