362.115/150: Telegram

The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Kennedy) to the Secretary of State

380. My 375, May 5, 7 p.m.29 The Foreign Office decision is to have the British Ambassador at Berlin inform the German Government that the British Government presumes the decree regarding declaration of property of Jews does not apply to the property of Jews of whatsoever nationality who are not domiciled in Germany and to ask the German Government for a statement of its intentions regarding effect of the decree on property of British nationals. The Ambassador will likewise say that the British Government feels it must make full reservation in regard to the application of the decree affecting any interests with which it is concerned.

The Foreign Office explained the reservation as motivated by some anxiety as to steps that the Germans may take to compel German Jews resident in England to make declarations of their property before a German Consul. Examination is being made here as to whether such a measure would in any way infringe British sovereignty. The Foreign Office will be glad to inform us of whatever reply may be received from the German Government.

Copy to Paris, also copy of my 375.

Kennedy
  1. Not printed.