740.00119 PW/10–245: Telegram
The Consul at Colombo (Oakes) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 3—3:16 p.m.]
224. From Yost. Unless attitude of Thai delegation here is overruled by Bangkok, there seems to be little likelihood that Franco-Thai [Page 1349] negotiations will make rapid progress. Thai attitude is that, there having been no declaration of war between France and Siam, no state of war exists and French assertion to the contrary is ex post facto. They therefore see no pressing need to conclude agreement with French, though would be willing to undertake negotiations in Bangkok with an accredited French diplomatic representative. As to frontier question, their attitude is that transfer was approved by recognized French Govt and that compensation was paid by Siam. They state moreover that should they now return territory to French, Indochinese elements who are resisting French would resent such action and relations between Thais and the peoples of Indochina to whom they are related by blood would be jeopardized. Furthermore Thais ask to whom they could turn over territory since French are not in control of Indochina.
I have re-stated US position set forth in Dept’s 104, September 21,87 laying stress on fact that our interest is in maintenance, regardless of circumstances in a particular case, of the general principle that territorial changes resulting from the exercise of Axis military powers, shall be considered null and void. I have emphasized that we consider Siam fully entitled, after territories are restored to Indochina, to raise the question by whatever peaceful means or before whatever international bodies may seem appropriate. Our views have been transmitted to Bangkok for consideration. As long however as the French are as insecure in Indochina as at present it seems probable that Siamese will pursue delaying tactics. [Yost.]