893.30 Missions/11–1546: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Harriman)
7733. By virtue Public Law 512 US Navy now engaged training Chinese naval personnel Tsingtao. Training undertaken on informal understanding Chinese would not engage services personnel any third govt connection Chinese armed forces.
US Navy concerned reports originating China to effect Brit have completed arrangements training UK substantial no. Chinese naval personnel and contemplate transfer of cruiser, destroyer and other naval vessels. US Navy disturbed lest prospect training in foreign country will attract best qualified Chinese into Brit training program and believes it is not in best Chinese interests undertake at this early stage of training operate cruisers or submarines. It feels that if these projects are implemented its own program would be impaired and Brit would gain predominant role in Chinese naval affairs.
Pls make discreet and informal inquiries accuracy above reports and report Dept for consideration connection with US military training program China.