File No. 600.939/35
The Secretary of State to the Minister in China (Reinsch)
Your February 19, 7 p.m. Department does not desire to obstruct in any way exports of foodstuffs to districts in Siberia where urgently needed to relieve distress. It has no objection, however, to consular officers assuring themselves that American merchandise so exported has no enemy destination, that is, will not be reexported to Germany or Austria or reach agents of either of those Governments. Possibly situation would be helped if exports to Siberia could be consigned to responsible local authorities for distribution in districts needing relief.