Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1942, China

740.0011 Pacific War/2391: Telegram

The Chargé in China (Vincent) to the Secretary of State

Chungking, May 1, 1942—4 a.m.
[Received 5:32 p.m.]

491. Following from Macdonald⁷¹ at Kunming.

“April 30, 3 p.m. Tendency for civil government in Burma to collapse increased during April. By April 25 there was no civil government operating south of Mandalay. Breakdown in civil administration extends to other areas bombed by Japanese or threatened by attack. Collapse of civil government is due to desertion and flight of native officials who cannot stand bombings or threat of invasion. Many senior British officials are being sent to North Burma where it is hoped neutral [sic] powers can be strengthened.

Fifth column activities consisting of arson, railway sabotage and interference with telegraphic communication are increasing.

The Government is exerting every effort to evacuate 80,000 refugees to India.

The Governor informed me that American papers have reported the Chinese have taken over civil administration in Burma. These reports are not true and the governor requested that the Department be informed.”

Vincent

71. John J. Macdonald, Second Secretary of Embassy.