DEPARTMENT OF STATE
FOREIGN ACTIVITY CORRELATION

September 8, 1942

FC - Mr. Lyon:
PA/LD Mr. Duggan:
FE:
RA:
SD:
PR:

The attached file consisting of strictly confidential instruction no. 1268 dated May 18, 1942, from Lima, and strictly confidential despatches from Lima, no. 3790 dated May 23, 1942, no. 4138 dated June 24, 1942, no. 4467 dated August 5, 1942, and 4618 dated August 18, 1942, pertain to the immediate Japanese problem in Peru. There is also attached a suggested airgram in draft form which was prepared in RA which I do not think should be sent because (1) instruction no. 1268 under reference definitely instructed the Embassy to communicate with the Peruvian Government on this subject; (2) the latest despatch under reference in the opening paragraph makes a very definite suggestion which in substance states that the most satisfactory solution to the problem would be for the removal of all persons in Peru of the Japanese race. It is also pointed out that under present conditions sending Japanese to the United States, a country which has declared war on Japan, may cause a breach of international law and certain associated complications. There are also eight recommendations set forth in the latest despatch, no. 4618, which, it is assumed, will be if they have not already been, called to the attention of the Peruvian Government.

The problem involved, presents a serious political question and before any communication is directed to the Embassy at Lima, it is suggested that the Department decide whether any effort should be made to influence Peru to breach the international law provisions.

When this question has been settled, then a decision can be reached as to whether the United States will undertake the wholesale removal of all Japanese from Peru over a period of time. In the event the Department decides not to encourage the breaching of the legal provisions in Peru, the Embassy should then be requested to make recommendations along the lines suggested in the eight specific recommendations above referred to if it has not already done so.

J. Daniel Hanley

DEPARTMENT OF STATE

December 12, 1941.

AMEMBASSY,
PANAMA.

RUSH FOR THE AMBASSADOR.

Your 491, December 9, 1 p.m.

War Department states that the Commanding General, Caribbean Defense Command, is being instructed as follows. After consultation with you and appropriate Panamanian officials, to construct immediately an internment camp to detain Japanese and other enemy aliens. The location of this camp to be within the Republic of Panama on a [illegible] agreed upon by the Commanding General and other interested officials. All enemy aliens apprehended in the Republic of Panama as well as in the Canal Zone to be interned in this camp. The Commanding General to furnish the necessary military guard and medical services until such time as the Panamanian officials assume full control of the camp. The Commanding General will be furnished the necessary funds to meet the cost of construction.