893.00/12530: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 22—6:10 a.m.]
180. I learn on reliable authority that the Foreign Office is apprehensive with regard to the autonomy move in Fukien Province. Although it is believed to be primarily an anti-Nanking and anti-Chiang Kai-shek movement, it nevertheless has a strong communistic tinge and it is feared that a definite anti-Japanese movement may arise. My informant states that the situation is being very closely watched and that if any indication of anti-Japanese activities appears, Japan will be forced to act. Due to the proximity of Fukien Province to Formosa Japan feels a special interest in the situation.
Repeated to Nanking.