File No. 763.72112/9746
The Minister in Switzerland ( Stovall) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 10, 9.41 a.m.]
4244. War Trade Board [from Dresel]:
No. 115. Your No. 73, Department’s 2392, August 3. Although constant pressure has been exercised, Allied representatives have so [Page 1036] far been unable to obtain positive decision from Swiss agreeing to blacklisting S.S.S. members. Subject has now been under discussion for nine months but objection has constantly been made by Swiss that action contemplated would permanently ruin Swiss houses and firms and persons dealing with them. At informal conference with S.S.S. July 31, British delegate and I told S.S.S. that question of principle would have to be decided before August 15 if publication by Paris committee was to be avoided, also that a list of 44 names submitted to S.S.S. for black list should be accepted in substance by that date. Reply has now been received stating that Federal Council needs more time for investigation. I approve proposed resolution and request specific authority to formally inform Federal Government that if favorable action, as stated, not taken by September 1 at the latest, Paris committee will, with approval of War Trade Board, include S.S.S. members on published list.
I agree with French Consul that inclusion will not violate article 3 upon the ground that this article merely forbids discrimination upon the ground of nationality. The proposed black list will not discriminate this manner but will be made up on the basis of proved acts of contraband, illegal practices, and violation of S.S.S. regulations, all without regard to nationality of offender.
I am keeping Paris constantly informed upon the subject and shall arrive Paris 12th for consultation black list and other important matters. Dresel.