740.00119 Control (Germany)/12–646: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Political Adviser for Germany (Murphy)
3008. For Murphy and Clay from the Secretary and Hilldring. You recall problem repatriation German refugees in Denmark was discussed in New York with Danish Foreign Minister who presented Aide-Mémoire27 urging solution broad problem. Rasmussen was given sympathetic reply but informed main problem involved Soviets and British who under 4 power agreement were obligated receive refugees previously domiciled Poland and area east of Oder–Neisse.
Danish Legation here has presented note containing more specific request that US zone accept total 12,000 to match Brit Fr offer whereby each accepts similar number. We appreciate US zone not obligated accept such number and that it has already received more than its share refugees from other areas. We also realize overcrowded conditions US zone, food situation, etc., do not favor reception additional refugees who probably in better circumstances in Denmark. Taking all this into account we nevertheless reluctantly have reached conclusion on grounds of national policy that steps should be taken at once to placate Danes. It is particularly important right now to retain and do everything possible to improve Danish goodwill. This objective we feel has overriding importance at this time. To serve purpose intended no time should be lost and we urge you reconsider question, reporting soon as possible whether US zone will receive 12,000 refugees from Denmark. We would have no objection if in working out details with Danes you subsequently informed them actual movement of refugees must be postponed until spring on grounds transfers in winter could not be accomplished in orderly and humane manner. [The Secretary and Hilldring.]
- Not printed.↩