740.00112 European War 1939/10–644: Telegram
The Minister in Sweden (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:22 p.m.]
4066. For the Department only. Legation’s 4053, October 6, 2 p.m.,86 1221 to London for the Ambassador. In presence of Larson and Winquist, two directors of SKF, Hamberg assured Waring and Ravndal, following extended but affable conversation this afternoon, [Page 645] that he would recommend to Board of Directors that SKF completely stop all shipments of ball and roller bearings and component parts and machinery to enemy Europe effective October 12. He was urged to obtain Board’s formal approval immediately and to notify us thereof by Monday87 at the latest. This he undertook to do.
Hamberg stated that the SKF would need evidence of threatened punitive action by Allied Governments for use in satisfying Germans, that complete stoppage of exports was result of “economical force majeure”. Documents in language which company believes will best serve purpose is being drafted by company’s lawyer. It is thought that company’s decision will not be qualified by conditions. It will, however, be understood that we will reach an interpretation of the indemnity clause of the June Agreement and also give assurances regarding SKF properties in Germany and France.
My 1225, October 6, 9 p.m. repeats this to London, for the Ambassador only.