102.78/8–1645: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in China (Hurley)
1359. No long term plan nor any plan involving $5,000,000 Urtel 1367 August 16 has been agreed upon in Washington formally or informally. Dept approves principle that plan of this size be considered in relation to total economic assistance but for such purpose agricultural survey beforehand seems advisable as described Urtel 1338 August 13. If formal request were received from Chinese Government Dept would be prepared to consider payment of salaries, per diem and transportation expenses to and from China of not more than eight American specialists in agriculture to proceed to China during present fiscal year to conduct survey and recommend a long term program of agricultural development. Dept would expect Chinese [Page 1438] Government to supply services of Chinese collaborators and meet all expenses arising from any travel the combined mission and Chinese Government might find necessary in making survey. While it is possible that recommendations made by the joint mission might include participation by American Government in a long term program through supply of personnel and funds Dept’s participation in survey would imply no commitment in regard to such recommendations. Participation in survey likewise will depend upon availability of funds at time request is received from Chinese Government. Please instruct Dawson to keep Embassy fully informed of his conversations with Chinese officials. Discussions should keep in mind possible interruption to survey caused by removal of Government back to East China.