740.00119 Control (Japan)/11–1346: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Smith) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 13—11:39 a.m.]
4123. We venture following comments, as formulated from Moscow point of view, regarding infotel November 8, 11 a.m.,79 reporting possible action by American occupation authorities to restore semblance of balance in Korean Legislative Assembly by appointing large proportion of Leftists.
We are of course not competent to comment on overall value of such a move. We would, however, express skepticism over likelihood that inclusion of large proportion of representative Leftists would quiet all anticipated Leftist outcry over composition of Assembly. Independent Liberals might be satisfied by such move, but scarcely those elements looking to USSR for guidance. Moscow directed Leftists have never been distinguished for having either sense of gratitude or fair play. Only political domination, not reasonable proportional representation, will satisfy them.
If proposed action is designed to forestall criticism by honest Liberals in Far East and USA, it may be successful. If, however, it is intended to lessen Communist criticism, it is in our opinion not likely [Page 766] to succeed. This will be especially true if mostly Leftists not susceptible to Moscow control are appointed. For Kremlin regards Social Democrats and enlightened Liberals as far more dangerous enemy than reactionaries.