894.628/1–1347: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Political Adviser in Japan ( Atcheson )
13. Draft text as follows sent to War Dept for approval and transmission by separate War Dept telegram to SCAP:
“Australian member FEC has submitted draft revision fisheries policy (FEC–035) proposing Jap fishing operations be limited area authorized Scapin 1033, June 22, 1946 unless extension authorized FEC; whaling from land stations and pearl fishing limited same area; no whaling from factory ships anywhere except under authorization FEC and agreement international authority for whaling.
Foregoing discussed meeting special subcommittee FEC Dec 19. At second meeting subcommittee, Jan 10, US member submitted following draft:
- ‘1. In view of the significant economic and social importance to Japan of the fishing, whaling, pearl fishing and other aquatic industries (a) as a source of food, (b) as a means of employment, and (c) as a source of exports to provide foreign exchange for essential imports, the Japanese should be encouraged to develop these industries, subject (a) to such precautions as to security as SCAP may deem appropriate in addition to those required under policies determined by FEC, and (b) to the provisions enumerated below.
- 2. Japanese fishing operations should not be permitted within 50 miles of any land area under jurisdiction of any foreign government, having permanent populations or military or naval establishments, except as specified in paragraph 3, without special arrangements, having the approval of FEC, between SCAP and the country concerned.
- 3. (This paragraph provides exceptions for Tsushima and north coast Hokkaido, following lines specified Scapin 1033, June 22, 1946.)
- 4. Japanese fishing vessels should have the right of innocent passage through areas of the high seas where their fishing operations are prohibited (as specified in paragraphs 2 and 3), but notice to the littoral state should be given by SCAP in advance of such passage.
- 5. Japanese fishing vessels in distress should not enter territorial waters except by special arrangement with appropriate authorities of the littoral state, and then under such terms as the littoral authorities may impose.
- 6. Policy with respect to repair, construction or conversion of fishing vessels should conform to other policies determined by FEC.
- 7. Japanese fishing operations should conform strictly
to:
- (a)
- The provisions of the international whaling agreements;
- (b)
- The provisions of other international agreements relating to conservation of fisheries;
- (c)
- Recognized conservation practices, including abstinence from pelagic sealing or interference with conservation measures instituted by littoral states.
- 8. The present policy with respect to fishing and aquatic industries of Japan is without prejudice to any decisions by FEC on any other matters, including reparations.’
At Jan 10 meeting subcommittee, other members expressed desire consult their governments prior next meeting, Jan 21. Australian member expressed strong disapproval US draft, desires no Jap fishing south equator, fears SCAP already preparing authorize another Antarctic whaling expedition. All members except US appear favor same restricted areas as in Scapin 1033.
Dept would welcome SCAP comments prior Jan 21 meeting subcommittee.”