793.94/13120: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 31—11:16 a.m.]
343. Our 100, February 12, noon.55 My British colleague has addressed a letter to me dated May 30, stating that his Government feels that if the Japanese Government acts upon its rumored intention to make public announcement of the occupation of certain Chinese islands it might be difficult for the Japanese to relinquish control of these islands on the conclusion of hostilities. Having been instructed to express his views, after consultation with our French colleague and myself, on the desirability of renewing representations to warn the Japanese authorities against such a step before they commit themselves so far that they cannot withdraw without loss of prestige, Craigie has expressed to me the feeling that in view of Hirota’s attitude at their meeting on February 9 (see our telegram under reference) any further representations would have no useful results. Craigie is furthermore of the opinion that public announcement of the occupation of the Chinese islands would not, provided it does not mention annexation, make their relinquishment more difficult than it already is; and furthermore that if public announcement is made we can seize the opportunity to reserve all our rights.
I have replied briefly stating that my feeling coincides with his but that I have not consulted my Government and that this represents only my personal attitude.
Copies of Craigie’s letter and of my reply go forward by pouch today.56
This Embassy knows of no intended Japanese announcement concerning occupation.