General MacArthur's report, concerning exemption of the Emperor from War Criminals, January 25, 1946 (continued)
TOP SECRET
GENERAL HEADQUARTERS, FAR EAST COMMAND
ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE
RADIO AND CABLE CENTER
29 November 1945 [*1]
TO: CINCAFPAC ADV, CINCAFPAC
FROM: WASHINGTON (JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF)
NR: WX 85811
1. The following, received from the State, War and Navy Departments, refers to the person of Hirohito, and not to the Emperor institution as much.
2. As you know, the subject of whether Hirohito is eventually to be tried as a War Criminal is of great interest to the U.S. The U.S. Government's position is that Hirohito is not immune from arrest, trial and punishment as a War Criminal. It may be assumed that when it appears that the occupation can proceed satisfactorily without him, the question of his trial will be raised. It may also be assumed that if such a proposal will serve a purpose, it may be raised by one or more of our allies.
3. It therefore appears clear that in any event we must not delay collecting the evidence, working always under adequate security arrangements. This evidence, would appear necessary whether he is eventually to be tried or not, since any decision not to try him should be made in the light of all available facts.
4. The effect which decision in this matter may have on the accomplishment of your mission is fully appreciated here. kence your comments on any aspect of the question will be most welcome.
5. Meanwhile, it is desired that the assembly of evidence be conducted with strict security safeguards to avoid disclosure either of the evidence itself or of the fact that much evidence is being assembled. The evidence will then be transmitted to the Joint Chiefs of Staff for submission to the State-War-Navy Coordinating committee. In due course you will be asked to recommend as to conditions which may warrant or permit proceedings against Hirohito as a War Criminal.
NOSIG
24492
TOP SECRET
DISTRIBUTION:
COMMANDER IN CHIEF
CHIEF OF STAFF
TOO: 291522/Z
MON: SA. 45
November 23, 2021
*1:“GHQ/SCAP Records, Top Secret Records of Various Sections. Administrative Division”dl.ndl.go.jp
