852.00/2348: Telegram
The Third Secretary of Embassy in Spain (Wendelin) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:40 p.m.]
X–23. Committee representing Diplomatic Corps, Madrid composed of Chilean Ambassador, Ministers of Denmark, Jugoslavia, Turkey, conferred with Barcia, Minister of State, July 31, 6 p.m. Received additional formal assurances Government’s intention to protect lives and property foreign missions, and residents in Madrid. Committee also called Minister’s attention to statements in local press likely to incite resentment against foreigners and especially diplomatic missions. The Minister immediately gave orders by telephone in presence of committee to Ministry of Interior that hereafter no reference to foreign missions or colonies should be permitted in the press. Lack of such reference in this morning’s press indicates compliance with this order. At meeting of Diplomatic Corps noon today, Government’s assurances and action on above two points accepted as satisfactory.
Formal note will be presented to Government today by Chilean Ambassador representing [apparent omission] requesting (1) that automobiles property of foreign residents be not requisitioned and (2) that those already requisitioned be returned immediately. It is understood that each mission reserves the right to take further action individually in this regard. As far as known only one automobile property of an American citizen requisitioned at present. Several others seized few days ago have been returned.
Diplomatic Corps will meet every 3 days hereafter instead of daily unless emergency develops.