793.94/7493: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Bingham)
Washington, December 5, 1935—5
p.m.
380. Your 595, November 27, 1 p.m., first paragraph.
- 1.
- British Ambassador here on November 29 gave Department orally the same information. Department is today informing Ambassador that, having carefully canvassed several possible courses of action, we regard as the most practicable the making by the Secretary of State of a statement to the press; that we shall continue carefully to observe developments and may if and when occasion warrants take further action as may seem appropriate; and that we hope there may continue to be between our two Governments free and frank exchanges of information and views with regard to this matter.
- 2.
- There is being released to the press, for morning papers of December 6, a statement. Text will reach you by radio bulletin. Substance is that unusual developments in China are rightfully and necessarily of concern not only to the Chinese but to all of the many treaty powers of which the United States is one; in the North China area we have various interests; this Government is therefore closely observing what is happening there. Disturbances and pressures make difficult the enjoyment of treaty rights and fulfillment of treaty obligations. In international relations there must be agreement and respect for agreements. This country has abiding faith in the principles of its traditional policy. This Government adheres to its treaties and bespeaks respect by all nations for treaties.
- 3.
- Inform Foreign Office orally of our oral communication to British Ambassador and of press statement.
- 4.
- Bring this and text of statement to attention of American delegation to Naval Conference.
Hull