No.552
-3
Nationality U.S. Regulations, 319/ ¥• /40
BRITISH E^bASSY,
WASHINGTON, D.C.
November 23rd, 1940
Godfrey Haggard, Esq.,
C.M.G., C.V.O., O.B.E.,
British Consul General,
New York City.
AR:GA
Sir,
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your
despatch of the 1st tfovember regarding an enquiry
made by the linage* of the Rcysl bank of Canada
at la   Juan, Puerto Rloo, regarding a report w !ch
he has heard to the effect that certain United
States nationality legislation would provide that
British subjects born In Puerto Rico on or after
1699 would become American citizens on the 14th
January 1941*
I know of no such legislation but have no doubt
that the Manager of the Royal Bank of Canada has in
mind the Nationality Act of 1940 which was passed
on the 14th October lest and of which I enclose a
copy herein.   Section 322 of this act provldea that
persons born in Puerto Mco of alien parents who
have not already exercised the privilege granted to
them In   ertain circumstances of becoming a citizen
of the United States may become citizens by making
a certain declaration.   I shall be glad if you will
forward the text of this section to the Manager of
the Royal ;iank of Canada with the Intimation that so
far as this Embassy is aware his fears regarding
iiritish subjects In -uerto Rico are unfounded.
I am. Sir,
Your obedient servant,
(SIGNED) N.BUTLER