340.1115A/2440: Telegram
The Chargé in Switzerland (Huddle) to the Secretary of State
Bern, February 14, 1942—4
p.m.
[Received 11:40 p.m.]
[Received 11:40 p.m.]
591. American Interests—Welfare. Department’s 354, February 6, 6 p.m. On request of Consul Squire at Geneva by Legation, Vice Consul Elting and House Amcross21 representative interviewed Inter Croix Rouge22 officials February 12 to ascertain willingness Inter Croix Rouge make welfare inquiries relating Americans throughout Axis territory. Report summarized as follows.
- 1.
- Inter Croix Rouge entirely agreeable and prepared receive and make inquiries through Red Cross societies in Axis territory.
- 2.
- Amcross may forward inquiries direct following procedure employed on past occasions since outbreak war.
- 3.
- Preferable make inquiries only by telegraph for time being because mail difficulties and delays particularly for Far East. Amcross apparently handling matter payment telegraphic charges through House.
- 4.
- Inter Croix Rouge suggests only straight whereabouts and welfare inquiries be undertaken at present so greater number may be handled and replies obtained more promptly. When procedure functioning smoothly transmission brief personal messages may be undertaken.
- 5.
- In view of Swiss Foreign Office position indicated Legation’s 257, January 14 [24] and, with respect to Far East inquiries, of Japanese authorities’ refusal, as reported by Legation, to permit Swiss representatives make inquiries and communicate on American matters in Japanese occupied territory, Inter Croix Rouge seems only channel for making American welfare inquiries. Elting and House believe there will be no delay in clearing inquiries in and out of Inter Croix Rouge Geneva office. Inter Croix Rouge officials stated their channels communication through own delegates and various national Red Cross societies in Axis territory must be considered more effective than any other possible channels and that promptness obtaining replies naturally varies from country to country with certain amount delay to be expected at least at the outset.
- 6.
- Legation has communicated with Swiss Foreign Office as directed in Department’s 354 and using discretion given it therein will refer to Swiss Government or Inter Croix Rouge inquiries received, endeavoring decide each case which channel offers best facilities.
Huddle