852.00/8377: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy (Phillips) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 21—9:42 a.m.]
210. With reference to British concern over Italian “volunteer” reinforcements to Franco Spain, Charles, British Chargé d’Affaires here, has confidentially informed the Embassy as follows:
Last night at Ciano’s request he called at the Foreign Office. He had called previously on August 18th to remind Ciano of the latter’s promise to investigate charges of reenforcements of Italian “volunteers” to Franco Spain as well as alleged French laxity on the Spanish frontier, which last the British deny. Ciano who according to Charles had been evasive on the 18th was forthright yesterday evening. He said that Italy was sending armaments to Franco in proportion to those which “Italy knew” were being sent from France to Barcelona. [Page 236] Appertaining to troop movements he admitted “replacements” but flatly denied an increase in existing forces. Charles felt that Ciano was sincere in this last statement.
Charles then called Ciano’s attention to the recrudescence of subtle anti-British propaganda in the Italian press with particular reference to Palestine. He pointed out that while there was no comment, ambiguous headlines and unfortunate photographs played a fairly important role. Ciano expressed complete surprise and ignorance of this which Charles considers somewhat naive.