793.94/5950: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 28—11:30 p.m.]
196. Reuter from Nanking, 28th:
“Announcement of British arms embargo has been received here with mixed feelings. Chinese circles fully sympathize with British attempt to assist in preventing widening of field of conflict or prolonging bloodshed but they are convinced that British step will not help cause of peace but will increase power of Japanese military aggression. It is pointed out that Japan is well equipped with weapons but China is practically without them. If arms do not come to China she will be helpless before onslaught of Japanese forces. Furthermore, Chinese circles state Japan is fully prepared for such an emergency as she is alleged to be able to buy arms through Siam. It is urged that powers through international action should place embargo on the aggressor thereby contributing to world peace.”