862.00/2896: Telegram
The Ambassador in Germany (Sackett) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 6—2:55 p.m.]
19. The emergency decree mentioned in my No. 17, February 4, 7 p.m.,4 was issued today. It contains drastic regulations pertaining to [Page 188] political meetings and demonstrations as well as restrictions on the press. The latter provide for the suppression of daily newspapers and periodicals for incitement to violation of laws and regulations, general strike or strikes in vital industries, for vilification of members of the Government and high officials and for disseminating incorrect news likely to impair vital interests of the state. The provisions of this decree are more drastic in both penalties and scope than the Papen decree which was withdrawn by Schleicher.
By another Presidential decree based on paragraph No. 1 of article No. 48 (see despatch 2005, of October 28, 1932)5 the titular Prussian Government is deposed and the Minister President’s functions transferred to Von Papen who is to take the place of Social Democrat Braun on the “triumvirate collegium” for the purpose of effecting a dissolution of the Diet. This decree may lead to court action.