548.G1/120a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Standley)
230. The American and British delegates to the Conference on refugees at Bermuda agreed that some assurance must be given to neutral states in regard to the eventual repatriation of those refugees received by these states. There will be two categories of such persons: First, those who are nationals of Allied Governments and, second, those who are nationals of enemy Governments. It would be possible for separate declarations to be issued, similar to the Polish, which might cover those persons in the first category. However, some special declaration is necessary in connection with the repatriation of enemy nationals.
It is obviously impossible for the Inter-Governmental Committee to issue such a statement and therefore the situation can be met adequately [Page 179] only by the issuance of a joint declaration by the governments concerned. The delegates have agreed on a formula which is transmitted below:
[Here follows text of proposed joint declaration quoted in telegram No. 2631, April 26, 3 p.m., to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom, printed on page 165.]
The British Foreign Office has indicated its general approval of the text of the declaration. However, before an approach is made to the other Governments concerned it is desired to obtain the views of the Soviet Government. You should therefore seek an early opportunity to secure approval of the declaration.
Should objection be made to the second sentence of the final paragraph you are authorized to suggest a change providing specifically for reference to “enemy territories” and to “persons of whatever nationality displaced therefrom”.