Office of the Historian

894.628/9–447: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Acting Political Adviser in Japan (Sebald)

secret
Washington, September 25, 1947—7 p.m.

381. Reur 235 Sept. 4.69 In view such considerations as nearness Japanese peace treaty discussions, possible repercussions from threat of increased US importation Japanese marine products, especially salmon, and FEC policy discussions, Dept inclined believe SCAP proposals now might make more difficult foreign acceptance US views [Page 295] respecting Japanese fisheries. If, however, your estimate of situation suggests off-Kamchatka proposal might be acceded to, and if Japanese prepared with equipment and labor force to maximize advantages of agreement, Dept has no objection exploratory conversations there.70 In latter event transmit outline of objectives and your estimate of situation prior to conclusion negotiations.

Lovett
  1. Not printed; it requested the Department’s views on a proposed extension northward of Japanese fishing operations to include the off-Kamchatka area (894.628/9–447).↩
  2. In telegram 255, September 30, from Tokyo, Mr. Sebald replied that any local conversations with representatives of power concerned were not believed advisable (894.628/9–3047).↩