711F.1914/418
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Panama (Wilson)
Sir: Reference is made to your despatch no. 738 of February 17, 194224 reporting your conversation with General Andrews concerning the position which this Government should take on the question of the exercise by the United States authorities of penal jurisdiction over Panamanian citizens for offenses of espionage and sabotage committed within the defense sites.
The Department is in full accord with the opinions which you expressed to General Andrews on this question. As reported in your telegram no. 112, February 23, 1942, 3 p.m.24 you have now received the Department’s instruction no. 523 of February 1824 and are, therefore, aware that the revised phraseology of the draft agreement supports your views on this matter; namely, that this Government should not be responsible for the trial and punishment of Panamanian citizens who may be detained or arrested by the authorities of this Government.
It is hoped that the Department’s acceptance of the Panamanian proposal as respects this question will expedite an early conclusion of the negotiations for the defense sites.
Very truly yours,