Foreign Relations of the United States Diplomatic Papers, 1937, The Far East, Volume IV

711.008 North Pacific/214: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Japan (Grew)

Washington, November 29, 1937—2 p.m.

320. Your 563, November 24, 5 p.m.

1. The Department is under continuous pressure from organized fishing interests, members of Congress, and the general public in regard to the Alaskan salmon fishing question. On November 26th we mailed you⁷⁹ a copy of a bill introduced in Congress by Delegate Dimond for the protection of Alaskan fisheries. You will appreciate, when you read this bill, which is gaining support in Congress, that its provisions are even more far-reaching than those of his previous bill. In addition to these forms of pressure, there is the continuous possibility of direct action against Japanese shipping on the Pacific Coast by labor elements sympathetic to the fishing industry.

2. In the absence of an early and favorable response from the Japanese Government to your representations there is every likely-hood that the situation with reference to the salmon fisheries will become increasingly serious.

3. In view of the foregoing, it is desired that, in your discretion, you again call upon the Foreign Minister and emphasize once more the urgency of prompt action by the Japanese Government.

Hull

79. Instruction No. 1383, not printed.