893.71 Manchuria/58: Telegram
The Minister in Switzerland (Wilson) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 14—2:10 p.m.]
248. 1. Reference to my 247, May 14, 4 p.m., Haas states that he has discussed proposal with the Chinese and he does not anticipate that they will raise objections thereto. I brought up informally the suggestion that arrangements might be made through the International Postal Union and thence through the appropriate cooperation of the Japanese. Haas replied that he felt there would be more appearance of recognition in dealing with “Manchukuo” through an international convention of which they were not members and against whose membership the Advisory Committee had pronounced than there would be in dealing through the technical organs of the various states directly with similar technical organs of “Manchukuo”.
2. I am inclined to think from the attitude of Haas and others with whom I have spoken that the draft proposal will encounter little opposition in the Committee. Therefore should I put forward the Department’s views we would find ourselves in opposition to the advice of the technical organs of the League and become the leader if not the sole supporter of an opposition.
3. There would be clearly a certain risk of political consequences if we take such a stand and you may feel therefore that in the circumstances it would be advisable to fall in with the view of the Committee if it accords unanimous approval to the draft. If opposition develops to the draft proposal I shall, of course, bear in mind the Department’s preference and do whatever I may discreetly to see that it is adopted.
Please instruct urgently.