Minister in Vichy recently visited Paris with permission of German Authorities.¹ He found that many Irish citizens there will soon require financial assistance. Majority of them hold British passports but Murphy is trying to arrange exchange for Irish. There are many of our citizens scattered throughout occupied territory but since cutting of communications between two areas it is very difficult for him to obtain information about them or even when located to give them financial or other assistance. It would be very helpful if German Government would give special facilities to Murphy or Cremin to visit occupied territory in the interests of Irish citizens. As things stand, German Authorities do not consider him as having any locus standi in that area. For instance, he is unable to do anything officially for Father Monahan, Passionist, interned in Bordeaux because holder of British passport. Murphy has made unofficial representations for release explaining that he is prepared to issue Irish passport.

Will you please put above considerations before Foreign Office and endeavour secure facilities for Murphy to look after Irish citizens in occupied territory.