693.001/423: Telegram
The Consul at Chefoo (Roberts) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 12—6 a.m.]
6. Referring to the Department’s telegram No. 2, November 23, 8 p.m.,37 concerning interference with American commerce. The Japanese Consul has informed Consulate that the Japanese Navy, effective December 5, removed restrictions on the shipment of foodstuffs, clothing, shoes and fuel from Chefoo to the interior and coastal ports of Shantung. The Japanese Naval authorities state that “fuel” includes kerosene, gasoline and oil products and that shipments of these articles may be made to guerrilla controlled interior destinations without restrictions. This action removes the major restriction on American trade in this consular district.
Repeated to Peiping, Chungking, Tsingtao and Shanghai.