740.00112 European War 1939/562: Telegram
The Ambassador in Belgium (Davies) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 26—5:10 a.m.]
199. Belgian Government is today addressing identic notes to the British and French Governments, protesting vigorously against the latter’s decision to establish a blockade against German exports.
In these notes the Belgian Government states that measures of reprisal taken by one belligerent against another for alleged violation of the law of war should not be directed at the neutrals. In the present instance, nevertheless, they would affect Belgium very seriously.
Notes then call attention to the declaration of Paris of 1856 signed by Great Britain and France, in the preamble of which it is declared that the neutral flag covers enemy goods. It would appear that this principle is about to be abandoned, to the great injury of the neutrals.
Text by mail.59
Press comment while severely critical of the German mine laying activities also condemns the British and French measures of retaliation. Commercial associations of Antwerp have expressed their apprehension to the Belgian Government.
- Not printed.↩