893.00/4–848: Telegram
The Consul General at Peiping (Clubb) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 9—11:52 a. m.]
170. In private interview with Vice Consul Martin86 today Lou Pang-yen, Peita professor of Political Science, member executive committee and editorial board Chinese Association for Social and Economic Research (official name), emphatically denied Hu Shih is motive force behind this organization. He stated that on contrary upon being informed of association’s platform he stated he could not agree with many proposals but would not actively oppose forming of association. According to Lou, Hu specifically objected to some of economic proposals because he opposes any form of collectivism (re Embtel 454 to Department, March 12).
Lou further stated that organization has no intention of becoming political party nor will it give organized support to Li Tsung-jen nor any other candidate. Most political minded members simply see group as Chinese Fabian society which would exercise political influence through writing but not through active participation in politics. Some members of group do not even wish to go this far.
Despatch follows87 setting forth certain information obtained locally re association’s organizational setup and orientation.
Sent Department as 170; repeated Nanking 20.