863.00/1447: Telegram

The Chargé in Austria (Wiley) to the Secretary of State

77. At 7:30 new press chief informed foreign correspondents that following Miklas’ resignation (presumably forced) Chancellor Seyss-Inquart had assumed charge of affairs in accordance with constitution (article 77 (1)).

Quarter hour later announcement of the “constitutional law for the reunion of Austria with the German Reich.” Article 1 of law reads “Austria is a province (land) of the German Reich”. Remaining articles provide that a free and secret referendum will be issued April 10th to approve this union. “All German” men and women of Austria over 20 years may vote. A simple majority of votes will be decisive, decrees regulating plebiscite will be issued by the Austrian Government, this law effective from today without submission to any legislative authority. Restriction of vote to “German” men and women presumably excludes Jews.

Reliable sources report that Schuschnigg’s departure from Austria miscarried. On inquiry press chief has informed American correspondent Schuschnigg still under arrest, house arrest.

Telegram follows.

Wiley