740.00119 FEAC/11–248: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Acting Political Adviser in Japan (Sebald)
379. Subject summary FEC Meeting Oct 21, 1948. Travel Outside Japan of Jap Commercial Representatives (FE0293/11): Commission voted down Sov amendment para 3 that words fol “Commission” be deleted and accepted UK compromise controversial phrase be deleted but “and the extent thereof” be inserted after “herein”. UK and US assured Chi who favored retention phrase it was their understanding UK suggestion included “number” of Japanese travelling abroad. Paper as amended approved by vote 10 in favor with USSR abstaining.1 Chi, Phil, Australian members recorded understandings into minutes. Chi stated in view clarification UK amendment by UK and US he was able support paper. Also his understanding phrase “peaceful needs as defined by FEC” referred to peaceful needs as defined FEC–106/12 and other relevant policy decisions. Phil member stated his Govt felt reluctant approve travel Jap abroad before peace conference. However, was prepared support paper with understanding recorded by Chi member. However, he pointed out devastation committed by Jap was still fresh in minds Filipinos and anti-Jap feeling prevalent in Philippines does not warrant admission Jap. Notwithstanding his approval, Phil Govt would not allow Jap enter Philippines. Australian member supported view Chi and Phil members. Recalling early apprehension his Govt Jap travelling abroad, he added his Govt would support paper but would continue exercise vigilance over Jap going abroad. Indian member stated was view his Govt time had come when no longer desirable place undue restrictions on Jap. He emphasized need for self-supporting Jap subject to overriding consideration she not again become menace to world. In this connection favored more liberal policy than one adopted.
Interchange Persons Between Japan and Other Countries for Cultural Purposes (FEC–240/16): USSR amendment which would [Page 886] have had effect permitting propaganda activities defeated. Chi in view US opposition deletion phrase “under this program” at end para 3 stated willingness accept phrase “under the program”. Change accepted by Commission. Motion had been made approve paper when Indian member inquired if paper included travel Jap technicians to other countries and stated he could accept paper if there was such understanding but would request postponement vote if there was not. No agreement among members on interpretation and vote postponed.
Because of his ruling FEGJ24:2/32, Level Economic Life in Japan: Policy Towards Jap Industry, had priority and was independent of Sov proposal, Chairman rec’d Sov statement and proposed policy decision on Level Economic Life in Japan for circulation members for later consideration.