Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1945, The British Commonwealth, The Far East, Volume VI

740.00115 PW/11–1444: Telegram

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

Washington, March 17, 1945.

1111. American Interests—Japan. Intercross cable US 2910 to War Department³² received March 7, 1945 reports deaths of prisoners of war, which, with three exceptions, occurred during period January through April 1944. Request Swiss to protest to Japanese Government regarding delay of Japanese authorities to report promptly these deaths and to press Japanese Government to submit prompt notification in future.

Swiss should also protest vigorously against the cremation of these deceased prisoners of war since the Japanese Government agreed to interment until end of hostilities (Legation’s 1853, March 23, 1943³³).

In view of willingness expressed by Japanese Government in Legation’s telegram no. 7519 of November 14, 1944³⁴ to forward original death certificates of prisoners of war and civilian internees, Department also desires to know when death certificates of persons named in US 2910 were furnished by Japanese authorities. Please ascertain what channels will be employed in transmitting death certificates to American authorities.

Acheson

32. Copy not found in Department of State files.
33. Foreign Relations, 1943, vol. iii, p. 974.
34. Not printed.