462.00R296A1/12: Telegram

The Minister in Switzerland (Wilson) to the Secretary of State

4. Yesterday the British Minister72 accompanied Sir Maurice Hankey, Secretary General of the coming Reparations Conference, on a visit to President Motta in the course of which it was arranged the Reparations Conference should be held at Lausanne either January 18th or 20th, the decision subject to formal acquiescence by the Federal Council. The request has been supported by notes from all six interested Governments. The British Minister states that it is probable that MacDonald, Neville Chamberlain, Simon and perhaps Runciman will be present.

Baldwin has consulted me as to his attitude regarding this Conference. I have advised him in view of the Department’s attitude insofar as it is ascertainable in the press to take no initiative to obtain information regarding the Conference but in the event that without such initiative information comes to him which he regards as valuable to consult me regarding the matter.

Please instruct if this advice should be modified.

Wilson
  1. Sir Horace William Kennard.