711.94114A/356: Telegram
The Minister in Switzerland (Harrison) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:14 a.m.]
1231. American Interests—Japan. Legation’s 1218.18 Swiss Foreign Office notice dated February 28 adds following résumé Gorgé’s impressions following talks with Japanese Ministry Foreign Affairs.
The question “atrocities” may be considered as belonging to the past. Japanese Government will reply to Department’s 274 and 275 of January 27 but principal problem remaining to be settled is present and future fate of prisoners of war.
[Page 934]During conversations Gorgé expressed conviction that Japanese Government acting in own interest allowing protecting power exercise proper function inspection camps and recommend improvements. He pointed out American Government in strong position this connection and Japanese Government created difficult situation by refusal allow Swiss visit camps Japan which gave rise to suspicions Allied countries. Gorgé emphasized article 86 Prisoners of War Convention essential and expressed hope Japanese Minister of War would decide observe it more liberally. Also insisted delivery those prisoners of war lists which not yet delivered Swiss.