File No. 855.48/10

The Ambassador in Great Britain (Page) to the Secretary of State

[Telegram]

910. Your 389, October 24.1 The Commission of Belgian Relief working under diplomatic guidance of Spanish Ambassador here and myself has the written assurance of the German military commander of Belgian territory held by the Germans that food sent them by this commission will not be confiscated. So far as I know this assurance has not been given to any one else who may send food. No food can be exported from England or Holland but the Netherlands Government has given this commission permission to distribute food landed at Rotterdam through our agents to people in Belgian territory. Since food cannot be bought on this side the world American committees should not send money but should confer with Hoover, chairman of this commission, care of this Embassy, regarding what kind of food to send and how to ship it. Commission has agents in every neighborhood in Belgium. It has in fact taken charge of practically all grocery stores. Money sent will be of no use. Food sent except through commission may never reach Belgium or may be confiscated.

American Ambassador
  1. Not printed.