893.2222/7–144
The Consul General at Kunming (Langdon) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 15.]
Sir: I have the honor to report the inauguration of a new conscription campaign for soldiers at Kunming and to describe Chinese press comment on malpractices connected with conscription and on the treatment of Chinese soldiers.
Summary: The inauguration of a new conscription campaign at Kunming has been accompanied by announcements in the local press that it would be conducted in accordance with legal procedure as a means of reassuring the populace. During the month of June, however, the press has enumerated various instances of malpractices connected with conscription, of mistreatment of soldiers and oppression of the populace by Chinese troops. The description of such conditions by the press is believed to be permitted by the local authorities as a means of embarrassing the Central Government authorities, but may be taken as further evidence of the miserable physical condition of Chinese troops and the slight positive contribution the Chinese armies can make to the war against Japan unless there are drastic reforms in the Chinese military organization. End of Summary.
[Here follows detailed report.]
Respectfully yours,