Office of the Historian

845C.00/5–1346: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Harriman)

secret
Washington, May 17, 1946—2 p.m.

4093. Telegram Rangoon6 quotes highly confidential source that recent instructions from London had (1) vetoed Governor’s7 proposal to increase powers of existing Councils8 prior to holding elections and (2) refused consent to Aung San’s entry Executive Council due to murder charges currently levied against him. Governor reported as protesting vigorously London’s rulings, alleging that rigid adherence to them might well precipitate open rebellion. Rangoon Version probably only part of story. Discreet inquiry suggested to ascertain when new suffrage proposal for Burma is likely to be considered by Parliament.

Acheson
  1. Telegram 146, May 13, 1946, noon, not printed.↩
  2. Sir Reginald Dorman-Smith.↩
  3. Advisory executive and legislative councils.↩