740.0011 E.W./10–1744: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant)
8719. For Murphy. The Department has considered your 8842, October 17, 6 p.m., and believes that the high policy decisions implicit in certain of the points made will necessitate a reference of this matter to the White House. Pending such reference the Department agrees that no broadcasts or announcements should be made which could be [Page 562] construed as a general commitment or long-term obligation toward Germany or the German people. However, the Department feels that your suggestion regarding a blackout on propaganda is impracticable at this time. It does agree that the maximum possible amount of straight news presentation will be desirable.
The last paragraph of your telegram under reference will be discussed with the Office of War Information and the War Department and our joint decision will be telegraphed to you at a later date. In general the Department is inclined to favor the inclusion of OWI civilians and the maximum possible OWI responsibility for operations.