811.20200(D)/1–3048: Telegram

The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State

188. Development of anti-American attitude in Chinese press, largely Govt controlled, as outlined in Shanghai’s despatch 38, January 12, is typified by statement of Hollington K. Tong, Director Govt Information Office, contained in Embtels 169 and 170, January 28.

Although we have on several occasions recently taken the opportunity to point out to officials of the Chinese Govt that we are not unaware of this development in the vernacular press and that we view it with some concern, we feel that at this time, following the retailing of obvious untruths about the US to the student body of the Central Political Institute by a responsible official of the Chinese Govt, we should take occasion to make informal representations to Foreign Minister pointing out the obvious adverse effect such unfounded statements could have upon consideration by Congress of a program of aid for China.

A prompt expression of the Dept’s opinion in this connection will be appreciated.

Stuart