Office of the Historian

765.84/2349a: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Italy (Long)
Washington, November 5, 1935—4 p.m.

195. Although it may be somewhat early to estimate the effect which the imposition of sanctions may have on living conditions in Italy, nevertheless the Department would like to have your views in this regard. Do you anticipate that foreigners residing in Italy will suffer privations which may be injurious to their health and to their minimum comforts? Do you anticipate likelihood of Americans experiencing difficulties of a financial nature or suffering any indignities arising from a resentment to the fact that, as residents, they are consuming certain foods and other materials which are essential to a prosecution of military activities? Is there any substantial danger inherent in the fact that a confusion of nationalities in the minds of [Page 814] the local populace may involve an American? Do you believe that, in general terms, the responsibilities of protection will materially increase the duties of our officers in Italy?

In case the answer to the last question is in the affirmative have you given thought to a procedure which might be followed uniformly by the Embassy and Consulates in Italy?

The above considerations should not be taken as an indication that the Department anticipates any incident which might lead to embarrassment but it none the less desires to be kept informed of any trends of public opinion which may be significant in this connection.

For your information when advice or information is sought of the Department as to desirability of traveling to Italy, the inquirer is referred to the President’s Proclamation of October 5 and the Secretary’s Statement of October 10. The Department cannot in all propriety discourage travel abroad nor at the same time fail to point out that we maintain diplomatic relations with Italy as a friendly nation and that we have consulates in that country to which our citizens may turn in case of need for advice or appropriate assistance. Inquiries of this nature, however, are relatively few at the present time.

Phillips