751G.92/110: Telegram
The Consul at Hanoi (Reed) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 2—9:36 a.m.]
58. My telegram number 55, November 29, 7 p.m. During the last few days there has been a recrudescence and continuation of incidents along the Indochina–Thai frontier, comprising air bombardments [Page 229] by Thai planes, firing on Indochinese river craft, occasional raids and kidnapping of Indochinese villagers, and the occupation of an Indo-Chinese island in the Mekong some 50 kilometers south of Vientienne. Although threatened, there were no important French reprisals up to last night.
The Government General regards the situation as serious but hopes that a peaceful settlement may be obtained. A high official professes to believe that the British are in part responsible for Thai activities. Generally this view is not acceptable as a spread of these activities might well lead to Japanese intervention in the South which would appear to be opposed to British interests. It would seem more logical that the Japanese are fomenting these activities.
The situation around Langson is much easier although more troops are being despatched in that direction. Disturbances are said to be continuing in the South despite strong repressive measures. It continues to be the consensus of opinion that the Japanese have instigated these native disturbances in the hope of finding an excuse for at least a measure of intervention.
Sent to Cavite for repetition to the Department, Chungking, Peiping, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Canton.