811.2300/38: Telegram

The Minister in China ( Schurman ) to the Secretary of State

46. Your 19, January 18, 7 p.m.99 Aviation Department object to granting permission on the ground that, whereas, when in other instances permission given for experimental flights across Chinese territory, governments concerned had stated machines to be of nonmilitary character and flights made for scientific purposes, in present instance no such information given. Foreign Office states Chinese regulations prohibit military aeroplanes of foreign nations flying over Chinese territory. Aviation Department holding conference with representatives of general staff and Ministry of War on January 30th to decide question.

I suggest you telegraph that aeroplanes to be used are of nonmilitary character and flight for scientific purposes if such is the case.

Schurman
  1. Not printed.