740.00112 European War 1939/453a: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Minister in the Netherlands ( Gordon )

134. Although British authorities long since advised Ambassador at London that British Government is not interfering with goods shipped directly or indirectly from Germany to the United States in neutral vessels with the exception of munitions which might be delivered to German raiders at sea, the Embassy at London now advises that “As a matter of practical experience neutral ships will not load merchandise destined for the United States in Rotterdam unless they are reasonably sure that the goods will be passed by the British authorities.” Please investigate carefully and report fully just what circumstances induce shipping concerns to decline shipments for United States and precise nature of action taken by British authorities in Dutch ports or elsewhere in connection with neutral vessels and their cargoes destined for United States.

Hull