793.94 Commission/341: Telegram

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

1037. I am informed that report of Commission of the League will be unanimous. Report definitely finds that Japan was not justified by doctrine of self-defense in doing what it did on September 18, 1931 (although it will carry a suggestion that perhaps the subordinate officers on the spot may have so felt). The report will find that Manchukuo could not have come into existence except with official aid of Japanese military and authorities. Report will at its end carry suggestion for settlement of problem thus brought about through negotiation of treaties between China and Japan providing for reestablishment China’s sovereignty in Manchuria, Government of Manchuria remaining autonomous under authorities appointed with the assistance of League and advisers from foreign countries.

Johnson