740.00112 European War 1939/8–3144: Telegram
The Minister in Switzerland (Harrison) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 1—9 a.m.]
5710. After receipt your 2958 August 26 I asked for appointment. Mr. Pilet received me this morning and I made informal démarche outlined your 2876. My British colleague with whom I had concerted action had previously seen Mr. Pilet.
Mr. Pilet told me that he had spoken to President Stampfli and that question of exports to Axis would be taken up at meeting of Federal Council next Tuesday.4 He had also spoken to Dr. Hotz. Mr. Pilet gave me to understand that he will urge on his colleagues impression [importance?] of taking prompt advantage of recent developments to give notice to Germans under escape clause. I therefore suggest that the outcome Tuesday be awaited.
[Page 764]During our conversation Mr. Pilet urged that it would strengthen his hand and also be convincing evidence of ineffectiveness of counter blockade if passage via France by truck for Swiss products of small bulk such as watches and precision instruments could now be permitted. My recommendation will depend upon Tuesday’s decision.
As regards transit traffic Mr. Pilet told me that details re proposed additional controls would be given by Mr. Hotz to OA and CS.
- September 5.↩