740.00/479: Telegram

The Consul General at Calcutta (White) to the Secretary of State

Reply to the Department’s circular. India to take [omission?] participation which is likely to consist of supplies more than of troops, may be jeopardized by subversive Nationalist activity and possibly Japanese submarines, et cetera.

Nationalists confident war will effect rapid autonomy. Congress Party leaders plan of action not known, they do not have the support of either Moslems or Princes. Troops loyal to the Government of India which is confident of maintaining order. If advisable constitution will be suspended in disloyal provinces.

In the last war high price of raw materials brought prosperity in which American business shared. I foresee no special difficulties for American citizens except suspected Germanophiles.

White