693.002/808: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Japan ( Grew )

16. Chefoo’s 3, January 14, 10 a.m., which Peiping has been instructed to repeat to you, in regard to Chefoo Harbor Office. Please discuss with your interested colleagues the questions raised by the telegram under reference.

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If and when your interested colleagues are prepared to take separate but similar action the Department desires that you make representations in writing to the Japanese Foreign Office against the proposed action of the Chefoo Harbor Office on the ground that such action by an agency which is effectively under Japanese control constitutes an unwarranted interference with the functions of the Chinese Maritime Customs in the maintenance of which the United States has an interest.

Repeated to Chungking, Chefoo, and Tsingtao.

Hull