892.014/6–1846: Telegram
The Chargé in Siam (Yost) to the Secretary of State
us urgent
[Received June 19—6 a.m.]
684. British Minister has received instructions from London to associate himself with me (if and when I receive similar instructions) in urging Siamese: (1) to make immediate retrocession of disputed territories and (2) to take measures to control Indochinese refugees along frontier. He is also instructed singly to suggest to Siamese (3) that it [would be unwise]94 to apply for membership in UN at this time when French are certain to blackball them; and (4) that frontier incidents not be formally brought before Security Council. London adds that Dept is withholding representations outlined Deptel 478, June 895 pending consideration this new line of approach.
We believe that all these points are in accord with Dept’s policy. We are certain, however, that Dept realizes that to ask these 4 vital concessions from Siam without offering any return whatsoever: (1) would create most unfortunate impression here, to some extent prejudicing all progress we have made in last 9 months, and (2) would probably fail to produce concessions sought. We believe it essential that, if action of this kind is to be required of Siam, she be offered simultaneously some quid pro quo such as French statement along lines Deptel 478, or Anglo-US agreement to assure fair hearing of whole problem by UN after territories are returned. Otherwise we think it likely Siam will continue to resist our pressure, will present case to UN and will seek Chinese and Russian support.…
British observer on southeast frontier reports two raids by small squads French troops on Siamese villages 15 and 16 June. One villager seriously wounded, some damage and looting.