File No. 763.72112/1560b
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Great Britain (Page)
1785. Department informed that when goods improperly seized or detained are released by procurator general, he requires claimants to sign undertaking indemnifying procurator general whether on his own behalf or on behalf of Crown or Admiralty marshal or any officer or official of Crown or of prize court, or any person acting under authority or instructions of same, against all petitions, “claims proceedings, actions or demands for or in respect or on account of the goods or any part thereof or any proceeds thereof or arising directly or indirectly out of or connected with the seizure, detention or release of the goods or any part thereof and against all costs, damages and expenses, in respect of the premises.” Department understands this indemnity for release intended merely to protect British officials against possible claims by third parties in respect of goods released, and not to release British Government from liability for damages arising from seizure and detention. Confer with Consul General. Bring subject attention Foreign Office, requesting official statement confirming above understanding.