740.00112 European War 1939/9150: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant)
5249. Your 5519 August 22. For Riefler. Since Foot’s letter has already been delivered and since Swiss are transmitting their explanation through Swiss Minister in London, the Department believes it is not now appropriate for you to associate yourself in a formal way with Foot’s letter. If you think it advisable, in order to maintain a united front with the British, you may informally indicate to the Swiss that this Government also is greatly concerned with the increase in exports of undesirable items to the Axis during June and July. For your information Foot’s letter contains somewhat more severe language than the Department would have used.
The Department will be interested in receiving complete Swiss explanation, together with your comments and those of MEW. It is hoped that then an agreed joint reply can be made.