793.94 Commission/604: Telegram
The Minister in Switzerland (Wilson) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 4—8:10 p.m.]
56. From Davis and Wilson. Since the despatch of No. 53, December 2, 6 p.m., we have repeatedly discussed the relative advantages of the two courses of action sketched under point 3 as (b) (1) and (b) (2). We have also discussed the matter with McCoy and desire to submit certain reflections to your consideration.
As pointed out in our 53, McCoy believes that the Japanese have discounted a nonrecognition declaration and that thus we need not fear that the issue of such declaration will cause further irritation with resulting stiffening of their attitude. It seems natural furthermore that if the Japanese expect such a declaration and it does not come they will feel that there is disunion and weakening of position on the part of the powers members of the League and will not feel the same necessity for compromise as they would if faced with concerted action. A general public disapproval such as a resolution of nonrecognition should not fail to be impressive to moderate elements in the country.
Also it seems just that in this case something should be done of a positive nature which would give satisfaction to the Chinese after more than a year has gone by in spite of their repeated urging to expedite the matter.
A careful article on the editorial page of the London Times December 1 presumably by Hugh Byas intimates a change in Foreign Office policy in Tokyo in favor of a conciliatory policy and pleads for time to allow this change of sentiment to grow. McCoy points out that this is the same attitude that Matsudaira here and other civilians in Japan had shown to him. He interprets this as an attempt by the Foreign Office to win outside sympathy while at the same time they are assuring the military group that they are playing for time so that the situation can be consolidated in Manchuria.
A declaration of nonrecognition would put the League on the same footing as the United States and enable us to act with them on the same platform in search for a constructive solution. Also Japan has prejudiced the case by recognizing Manchukuo. It would seem essential to equalize the situation by a declaration of nonrecognition. We have not disregarded the arguments on the other side and recognize [Page 385] their value but our consideration of all facts at our disposition here lead us to believe that the League should adopt a definite resolution against the recognition of the Manchukuo by member states.
If you are in accord and wish us to take action as sketched in last sentence of penultimate paragraph of 53 please so instruct us promptly as possible so that we may act while Herriot and MacDonald are here.