894.628/4–2347: Telegram
The Political Adviser in Japan (Atcheson) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 26—6:25 a.m.]
100. 1. In discharging responsibility to maximize Japanese fish production to alleviate continued food shortage in Japan, SCAP has encouraged and assisted in fullest utilization fishery resources within present authorized fishing area. Any considerable increase in fish production would require temporary opening additional areas to SCAP administered fishing operations. Studies indicate several fishing grounds outside present authorized areas, formerly fished by Japanese boats, not now being fully or in some cases even partially utilized by others. Principal of these fisheries and grounds are:
- a.
- Trawl fishery for cod and flat fish off east coast of Kamchatka between 60 degrees north and 64 degrees north latitude, and 173 degrees and 180 degrees east longitude, between 12 to 50 miles from shore. Season June to August inclusive.
- b.
- Pelagic fishery for salmon off east coast Kamchatka from 48 degrees to 56 degrees north latitude, 12 miles off shore. Season May 20 to August 20.
- c.
- Trawl fishery in Yellow Sea and east China Sea beyond present areas.
2. Japanese are in position to place in operation by opening of respective seasons fishing expeditions as follows:
- a.
- For trawl fishing described in paragraph 1 a: four trawlers, four transfer boats, one cargo saltery and one carrier boat. Estimated that in 75-day season boats will produce about 2800 tons of salted fish and 56 tons cod liver oil.
- b.
- For pelagic salmon fishery described in paragraph 1, b: two factory ships, 50 fishing boats, four transfer boats, two transports and one small oil tanker. Estimated that in 80-day season boats will produce 3300 tons salted salmon and 100 tons salmon roe.
3. Assuming that bilateral agreement would obviate necessity submission to Far Eastern Commission of proposal for extension presently authorized fishing areas, Department is requested, should no objection be perceived, to seek concurrence on temporary basis from USSR for SCAP administered fishing operations in areas described in parts 1 a and 1 b on scales respectively indicated in paragraphs 2 a and 2 b above. It would be satisfactory if bilateral agreement for fishing season 1947 and/or 1948 were obtained.
4. Bilateral agreements with China and USAMGIX [USAMGIK?] for SCAP sponsored trawling operations in areas mentioned in paragraph 1 c have been completed. Operations will commence upon completion administrative details this headquarters.