861.77/1117: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Irkutsk (Harris), temporarily at Omsk
Stevens telegraphs October 274 that difficulty is being experienced in the enforcement of the Allied railway agreement on account of the interference of Russian railway officials with Allied inspectors. [Page 529] Stevens believes this emanates from Minister of Works and is prompted by efforts to force recognition and financial and military assistance. He recommends that that part of Section 2 of the agreement which provides for Russian managers with powers conferred by Russian law should be abrogated, as it is used he avers by the Ministry of Works to thwart the Allied authority.
The Department has replied that the moment is not opportune to endeavor to obtain an amendment of the railway agreement and that considerations of general policy require that the greatest possible measure of participation in management and operation be allowed to the Russians.
The Department adds, however, that with a view to overcoming unwarranted interference by Russian officials specific cases for complaint should be reported to you and that you are being instructed to make urgent representations with respect to them. You may also discuss with the authorities at Omsk, within your discretion, the general situation described above with a view to obtaining any possible abatement of the difficulties which Stevens is encountering.
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