711.94114A/393: Telegram

The Minister in Switzerland (Harrison) to the Secretary of State

1830. American Interests, Japan. Legation’s 1231, March 1, 5080 [1580], March 15.21 Substance informal communication Foreign Office official March 22 handed Tait22 follows:

Gorgé discussed March 11 with Shigemitsu, Japanese Foreign Minister, question POWs: Shigemitsu strongly criticized American, British campaigns which described repeatedly as “nasty”. Added these greatly irritated Japanese military, naval authorities and he endeavoring calm tempers. Japanese Government decided not yield methods intimidation.

Informant stated with regard general attitude Japan his country overlook nothing toward prosecute successful war. Consequently would do nothing contrary its military interests. However, subject this reservation Japan has no intention divest itself humanitarian obligations.

Shigemitsu confirmed his Government preparing reply American protest which would set forth principles Japanese authorities intend follow in matters relating POWs. As no definite decision yet taken Japanese Government, Shigemitsu unable tell Gorgé more this point.

Gorgé pointed out that while Swiss Legation able visit certain camps metropolitan territory it unable visit camps situated conquered territory (except Hong Kong) and that Japan’s adversaries naturally [Page 937] conclude from this persistent refusal that conditions prevailing unvisited camps are not as they should be. Added that impossibility protecting power ascertain condition POWs finally resulted current situation regarding which Japan strongly complains. Gorgé expressed view rapid improvement present state of affairs would result if Japanese would apply terms Geneva Convention. Camp visits not only in interest United States, Great Britain but also Japan.

Shigemitsu replied Japan applies policy conforming its principles and that within scope military necessity these are just. Shigemitsu made no further statement regarding present state affairs but screened himself behind his Government. He repeated always prepared examine with Gorgé all questions pertaining American, British interests on condition this be not under pressure intolerable for Japanese of campaigns launched Americans, British. Gorgé observed there would be no further reason this campaign if these concessions obtained. Terminated interview expressing hope conditions would soon become sufficiently favorable for him act both in interests powers protected by Switzerland and those Japan.

Harrison
  1. Latter not printed: it cited reports from Mr. Gorgé that he had been frequently informed at the Japanese Foreign Office that Anglo-American attacks in connection with atrocities were political maneuvers, and that Mr. Eden’s statement before the House of Commons on January 28, 1944, had caused little reaction in Japan and no visible reaction in occupied China (711.94114A/379).
  2. George Tait, First Secretary of Legation in Switzerland.