Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1942, General; the British Commonwealth; the Far East, Volume I

390.1115/1291: Telegram

The Chargé in Switzerland (Huddle) to the Secretary of State

Bern, January 29, 1942.
[Received January 29—12:54 p.m.]

298. American interests—Philippines. Department’s 126, 16th, and other telegrams requesting information regarding persons in Philippines.

Swiss Foreign Office has telegram dated January 23 from Swiss Minister Tokyo saying Japanese authorities continue refuse authorize foreign powers to look after interests of belligerents at Manila, that he has endeavored orally and by note to persuade Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs but unsuccessfully so far to give such authorization and that he considers it useless for time being to send him telegrams requesting information regarding persons or property in Philippines.

Department’s inquiries relating to Philippines are therefore being held here awaiting Department’s instructions in regard to them. Does Department wish endeavor be made obtain desired information through Red Cross channels in which connection please see Geneva telegram 11, January 28,⁸¹ transmitting message for Amcross^81a from representative and also refer Legation’s 257, 24th.⁸²

Huddle

81. Not printed; it reported that the Japanese Government had agreed to the appointment of an International Red Cross delegate to Tokyo (854.48/19).
82. American Red Cross.
82. Ante, p. 255.