Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1943, Europe, Volume II

740.00113 European War 1939/938: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Algiers (Wiley)

Washington, July 9, 1943—4 p.m.

1275. For Murphy.⁶⁷ Reference BOC Airgram 60.⁶⁸ On January 5, 1943 the Department announced the following declaration by the United States and certain others of the United Nations:

[Here follows text of statement printed in volume I, page 444.]

The President has requested me to point out to you that the conditions described in BOC Airgram 60 come within the policy announced in the above declaration not to recognize property transfers made by inhabitants of occupied territories under duress of Axis powers.

Please take this matter up with the French authorities and endeavor to ascertain from them what action they propose to take to implement the United Nations declaration in respect to the situation reported in BOC Airgram 60. You should inform them that this Government looks with disfavor upon any attempt at foreclosure or collection of interest on mortgages executed as a result of levies by the Axis powers.

After you have discussed this matter with the French authorities, please report to me promptly their reaction and any changes that may occur in the situation.

Inasmuch as BOC Airgram 60 originated from the Finance and Control Division of the North African Economic Board, please bring this cable to its attention.

Hull

67. Robert D. Murphy, Chief Civil Affairs Officer at Algiers; United States Political Adviser on the staff of the Supreme Allied Commander, Mediterranean Theater; Personal Representative of President Roosevelt in North Africa.
68. Dated June 15, p. 280.