893.00/12–2446: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 24—8 a.m.]
2174. Dr. Chen Li Fu, Kmt Minister of Organization, December 23 stated National Government as well as Kuomintang will retain their present status in transitional period between promulgation of China’s new constitution, which has been set for January first, and its enforcement when the next National Assembly convenes and that during this period many practical problems, including the enactment of a number of new laws will have to be thrashed out in the present Assembly. During the transitional period the Assembly delegates whose tenure holds good until the convocation of the next Assembly will supervise the enforcement of constitutional government.
Chen stated that any opposition to the new constitution after it is adopted by any of the political parties which are not participating in the present Assembly will be referred to the people and not to the Government.
He said that the Communists’ action in boycotting the Assembly has “no effect on the enforcement of the new constitution” and that he has had no information re the Communist request for a prolongation of the closing of the National Assembly scheduled for the 24th and added that non-participation of Communists indicates their willingness to give up their own rights.
[Page 659]Chen denied an attempt on the pact [part] of the Kmt to organize a joint party and political committee, explaining that the party is only taking advantage of the opportunity presented by the assembling of party workers from various regions to discuss some routine matters of the party.
Chen said he has no information when the Government will be reorganized nor is he participating in any discussions concerning such reorganization but indicated that in case reorganization takes place during the transition period prior to the enforcement of the new constitution, his Ministry as well as the Ministry of Information will retain their present functions.
He denied he is participating in talks for reviving Government Communist peace talks.