365.1121 Slavich, Nickola/26: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy (Garrett) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received 5:10 p.m.]
164. Department’s 118, July 25, 3 p.m. According to my information from Grandi, consuls have no right beyond the terms accorded the prisoner’s own lawyer to see the prisoner alone. Immediately before the issuance of the summons or act of accusation, the defending lawyer has the right to visit the prisoner alone and without special permission. Prior to that time, the defense lawyer can see his client only by permission of a competent judicial authority and under the surveillance of a representative of the prison or judicial authorities.
Beyond this, Grandi stated, he could not go.
He did say, however, that upon his initiative the matter was now being discussed anew. The object was a practical understanding among the Ministries involved, that is to say, the Ministries of Justice, Foreign Affairs, and Interior. Grandi has assured me that forthcoming instructions would certainly reduce to a minimum future errors and abuses; perhaps, prevent the latter. The instructions would be formalized, definite, and obligatory.
Over a period of years there has been considerable talk about a treaty relative to naturalization between Italy and the United States. Grandi doubts whether he can persuade the Italian Government to [Page 636] act on this matter. Nevertheless, he intends to consult them again on it.