611.939/154: Telegram
The Consul General at Canton (Myers) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 12—1:53 p.m.]
76. Reference Department’s 25, July 5, 6 p.m. and [26,] July 11, 6 p.m.79 This morning I called upon the Japanese Consul General and made representations both in regard to the matter of the silk waste and the closure of the Pearl River. A memorandum embodying these representations was left with my colleague.
The Consul General replied in substance that the Pearl River continues to be kept closed for military reasons (mentioning in that connection that the delta has not as yet been completely occupied), that the Japanese authorities have refused applications from Japanese for the export of particular goods (several American applicants have been refused permission to reexport cargo), and that he regretted that it was not possible to do anything in the case.
In the discussion which followed he indicated that the Japanese authorities exercise close control over local Japanese trade and that the trade is restricted. With regard to the reported export to India of raw silk he appeared to have no knowledge but stated that with a view to affording relief to farmers and others engaged in the industry the authorities had instructed a certain firm (Mitsui) to purchase silk and has permitted export to Japan.
A detailed report will be sent by air mail.80
Repeated to Hong Kong, Chungking and Peiping for repetition to Tokyo.