694.0031/6–947: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Political Adviser in Japan (Atcheson)
205. 1. Inform Bowman.86 Memo of understanding between SCAP and Eberle87 Mission and proposed press release discussed in Trade Board June 6. Practically no criticism of memo of understanding and gratification expressed at decision for immediate entry service firms and 15–day time lag after entry of traders prior finalization transactions. Text of press release88 generally satisfactory but members upset over June 9 release as it did not permit consideration Government comments in advance.
2. Following specific IATB comments of interest:
- a.
- Although 21 days might be basic period of entry permits, Board members believe provision should be made for countries to request permits valid for longer period for particular individuals. Believe SCAP should be willing under proper circumstances and at request of sponsoring government to grant original entry permits or extensions valid for specific periods of more than 21 days, or indefinitely.
- b.
- Members raised questions regarding prepayment of telegrams from Japan in currencies other than dollars only currency to be so used according to para 27 of memo. Whitman89 stated he understood para 27 to imply no change in present procedure under which telegrams are prepaid in military payment certificates. He suggested if present procedures re prepaid telegrams were unsatisfactory to anyone problem should be raised with SCAP.
- c.
- Members requested assurance transactional communications if permitted prior Sept 1 would not permit evasion Sept 1 starting date specified para 35 of memo. Such assurance was given in general terms but further clarification of SCAP’s position on this point would be appreciated. Similarly definition of “finalized” in para 35 would be helpful.
3. U.S. agencies represented by Trade Mission have agreed to following wording of para 8 of memo of understanding:
“Selection of trade representatives to be admitted to Japan will be made by the governments concerned from among applications submitted to them by their nationals. Selections will be based upon criteria established by the FEC and on the basis of information transmitted from SCAP indicating goods available, raw materials required and potential trading and other opportunities open to development. Selections will be forwarded by the respective governments to SCAP for final approval for entry into Japan.”