July 13, 78 • Georgetown-State • 2219

UNCLASSIFIED

[agencies receiving informational copy on PDF]

101530 JUL 78
FM AMEMBASSY GEORGETOWN
TO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE [illegible]
UNCLAS GEORGETOWN 2219

E.O. 11652: N/A
TAGS: CASC (FARRIS, MARSHALL)
SUBJECT: W/W MARSHALL FARRIS – AUGUST 5, 1907
REF: STATE 168133

1. The Embassy considers that it would be inappropriate to meet the request conveyed in the referenced cable that the Embassy arrange for pictures to be taken of an American resident of the People’s Temple Jonestown community in order to satisfy an American relative that the individual is well. It would set a precedent that could be a heavy burden on the Embassy’s small consular staff in dealing with this community of 1200 American citizens and their numerous relations in the U. S. and would not be a particularly reliable indication of well-being.

2. As Department is aware and responding to the particular nature of these W/W inquiries Consul identifies each citizen through an examination of the citizen’s passport. Then he has a private, personal conversation with the individual. When Jonestown is next visited (we are planning a visit August 1) it will be suggested to Mr. Farris that when he next writes her sister he enclose a recent photograph.

3. Embassy has written Privacy Act authorization from Farris to inform relatives about his residence and activities in Guyana.

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DWYER

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