124.51/204: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Leahy) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 27—10:44 a.m.]
1477. From Paris. Reference Paris telegram 1432, May 22. Following information obtained from German Embassy officials by Dean of the Diplomatic Corps concerning the closing of diplomatic establishments in Paris:
[Page 523]Most of the Paris units of missions are preparing to leave for Vichy by the end of the first week in June, although the shortness of the time allowed has been protested. German Embassy has requested in addition to complete list of staff already furnished, list of all officers and subordinate personnel designated to leave, showing names, members of family, date of proposed departure, destination, and means of transportation to be employed. Their families must accompany them. The taking out of archives and government funds may possibly be accorded but special permits must be obtained.
All Embassy premises and residences of diplomatic staff to be placed under protection of consular officers. Embassy and Legation premises to be closed and not to be used for consular purposes.
With specific reference to our establishment, I have set forth to German Embassy the practical difficulties of closing the United States Government building and suggested the use of the side door on Rue Boissy d’Anglas and the closing of the main entrance on Avenue Gabriel.
The question of allowing officers with dual commissions to remain in consular capacity only is still in abeyance and may have to be taken up with Berlin Foreign Office in each specific case. I have insisted that Taylor76a was transferred here in consular capacity.
Repeated to Berlin. Plitt.
- Laurence W. Taylor.↩