840.48 Refugees/12–744: Telegram
The Chargé in Switzerland (Huddle) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:33 p.m.]
7973. Your 3435, October 6, WRB 198. Foreign Office note November 25 quoted Hungarian response delivered Swiss Legation Budapest November 8. Following is substance note:
Jewish workers needed within framework Hungary’s total war mobilization. Concentration Jews fit for work not discriminatory as on basis law 1939 all physically fit persons without distinction race nationality or religion subject military labor service under military discipline. Concentration Jews work camps can not be considered as punishment camps. Actually Hungarian and German Governments have consented visit Intercross delegate camps where Hungarian Jews performing labor in Germany. Furthermore the protection of these Jews is appropriately provided for according to nature of work performed.
Solution of Jewish question Hungary decided solely in light interests Hungary. Foreign threats of whatever kind cannot change this principle. Jewish workers represent part all Hungarian workers and are used within framework Hungarian war effort in a form which appears appropriate Hungarian Government.
Government intends treat Jews in just and humane manner. Such measures depend, however, upon attitude Jews themselves and upon whether further enemy terroristic attacks on Hungarian civilian population [Page 1182] occur since these provoke increased opposition Hungarian population. General standard life Jews will not be lower than working classes.
Regarding issuance passports and other documentation by Foreign Mission Budapest to Hungarian Jews for their emigration neutral countries or Palestine, Hungarian Government reiterates it is still prepared to recognize these papers and accord emigration Jews concerned within frame-work number visas agreed upon by German Government for transit through German territory in case normal diplomatic relations with interested country so permit.
Despatch follows.51
- Despatch 10132, December 6, not printed.↩