File No. 654.119/138a
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Switzerland ( Wilson)
1554. The problem of securing for Switzerland the grain cereals promised by the agreement of December 5 is receiving energetic and constant attention. The difficulties in the way are almost insuperable but there is full realization of the obligation of the United States in this regard and this obligation will be performed even though it becomes necessary to deprive the Allies and ourselves of foodstuffs which are imperatively required. The Secretary of State, McCormick, and Hoover are giving this matter their personal attention.
The problem of securing ships for this purpose has unexpectedly become embarrassed by the apparent unwillingness of the Dutch to live up to the terms of the temporary shipping agreement recently entered into which provided that 150,000 tons of Dutch shipping should be utilized for Belgian and Swiss relief at the discretion of the United States. As a result of most earnest representations, however, three Dutch ships have just been chartered for voyage to Cette, but necessity for repairs and dry docking will prevent their sailing for a few days. Plans for securing foodstuffs outside United States are being favorably developed.
The foregoing is primarily for your personal information but you may, if you see fit, informally advise the Swiss Government that you are informed that efforts as above indicated are being made by the Government of the United States.