693.002 Manchuria/122: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 29—7:40 a.m.]
741. Following from American Consul General at Mukden:
“June 28, 5 p.m. Foreign Minister Hsieh yesterday issued a second declaration regarding taking over customs the important points of which were:
- 1.
- The new state takes over customs and collection of all customs receipts, but in case it is impossible to collect at Dairen collection will be made at another place (presumably just outside leased territory).
- 2.
- New régime again accepts responsibility for payment of proportionate share of receipts required for service of the foreign loans.
It has been learned that all Japanese in Chinese customs at Antung have resigned, though customs is still functioning. It is probable that they will join service of the new régime. It is reported Antung customs was taken over at 10 a.m. today by intervention of Japanese troops.”
“June 28, midnight. Newchwang customs yesterday was taken over forcibly by a new superintendent of customs (a Manchu), a Japanese adviser and considerable body of police. The reason for this action is said to be the dismissal of Fukumoto.”