File No. 611.419/1055
The Ambassador in Great Britain (Page) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9.10 p. m.]
5107. Your 3936,3 October 13. In a private and confidential note which I have received from Lord Robert Cecil, who is in charge of department to which this matter was referred, it is stated that inquiry is being made into the case of Merck and Company, the [Page 481] result of which will be at once communicated, and further assures me British Government does not desire to interfere in any way with trade of firms on black list “B” on which name of company appears. It is further set forth that inclusion on that list means only that the trade of such firms should be watched, and if the facts are as stated, the complaint of the United States Government has been caused by the unauthorized action of one of the British consular officials which has not the support or approval of the Government.