711.94115 Exchange/16: Telegram
The Minister in Switzerland (Harrison) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5:06 p.m.]
8210. Swiss Foreign Office states informally (American interests, Far East, repatriation) Gorgé on December 17, prior receipt Department’s [Page 952] 3121, December 15, had long conversation Japanese Foreign Office concerning further repatriation Americans.
Japanese spokesman stated that following their last conversation, he had observed certain results which probably signify Spanish Embassy, Washington, able furnish reassuring information. Despite this, Japanese Foreign Office believes atmosphere currently unfavorable third exchange for following reasons: (1) because Japanese authorities had not yet received sufficient information regarding Japanese internees faithful [to] Japanese Government; (2) owing certain incidents as, for example, torpedo sinking hospital ship Buenos Aires Maru; Japanese protest to American Government concerning this sinking now fully published Japanese press.73
Gorgé replied foregoing as follows: 1. Available information indicates American Government prepared furnish complete information Japanese [Spanish?] Embassy concerning Japanese internees all categories. 2. No details subject hospital ship supplied Swiss Legation.
Gorgé availed himself opportunity direct attention Japanese spokesman to fact that although Japanese detains greater number POWs, United States holding greater number Japanese civilian internees.
He added incontestably United States furnishes more information conditions Japanese internees than Japan furnishes conditions American POWs; that actually Spanish representative accorded every facility visit all Japanese internees while Swiss representatives far from able visit American POW camps. Gorgé pointed out Japan had no reason complain.
Japanese Foreign Office official replied to foregoing that for his part is prepared take all necessary steps facilitate visits Swiss representatives American POW camps.
Gorgé gained impression from interview United States probably has greater interest third exchange than Japan. Gorgé suggests, therefore, that Department create if possible situation more favorable for negotiations, for example, by replying protest Japanese Government mentioned above. Gorgé would appreciate being informed nature American reply in case matter should again arise.