360c.1121/14
The Chargé in Poland ( Rose ) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 29.]
Sir: With reference to despatch No. 1264, August 31, 1936,26 concerning representations made by the Embassy in connection with [Page 412] the harsh treatment of Americans charged with violating Polish exchange restrictions, I have the honor to transmit herewith a copy and translation of a circular instruction of September 3, 1936,27 issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Polish diplomatic and consular officers abroad. A copy of the instruction was handed to me by the Chief of the Anglo-Saxon Division of the Ministry on September 8, 1936, with the request that it be transmitted to the Department.
The instruction provides that there shall be stamped in the passports of all persons to whom Polish visas are granted a notice in Polish and in the language of the country where the visa is granted calling attention to the requirement that all instruments of payment, papers of value and bonds in the possession of the bearer shall be declared when entering Poland; and that failure to observe this requirement, aside from making it impossible for the traveler to take out of Poland the effects under reference, also renders him liable to legal proceedings. The instruction also requires Polish consulates and consular sections of Polish Embassies and Legations to notify the public of the restrictions orally when visas are issued and also by notices in Polish and in the language of the country posted in conspicuous places in such offices.
Respectfully yours,