740.00115 P.W./10–1044: Telegram
The Minister in Switzerland (Harrison) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 10—2:04 a.m.]
6760. American Interests—Shanghai. Legation’s airmail 8600, June 26.11 Swiss note October 6 states Fontanel September 27 through 29 visited seven civilian assembly centers, that is all in Shanghai area except Yangchow camps which he hopes be able visit in future and Haiphong Road which under military control. Able at each center converse freely with man of confidence and other committee members in presence Japanese commandant and representatives Japanese Consulate General. Fontanel ascertained that quality, quantity food insufficient; medical care greatly impeded by lack of medicaments and instruments; confinees no longer have sufficient clothing and are obliged to live in too limited quarters. Men of confidence have above all insisted on necessity furnishing foodstuffs and paying greatly increased financial assistance.
Fontanel will forward detailed report on subject, but desires authorization now to make most urgent expenditures. He will later give details regarding sums necessary this connection, although constantly rising cost of living makes preparation of exact budget for any specified period impossible. In Fontanel’s view it would not be desirable in present circumstances to request Swiss Legation, Tokyo, make representations Japanese Government.
Swiss inquire whether Department disposed give authorization sought by Fontanel. Although no reference made thereto, Department may wish consider foregoing in connection Legation’s 6304, September 23.12