893.00/1–3048: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in China (Stuart)
173. Butterworth has communicated Pei Tsu-yi substance Shanghai’s 209 Jan 30 and discussed with him light in which Ta Kung Pao has been portraying US policy and actions. Pei states he will convey by personal letter to Chang Chun his own views as to undesirability Ta Kung Pao indulging such attacks on US.
Dept considers attempts bring about cessation Ta Kung Pao criticism US by inducing ChiGovt exert official pressure upon that paper probably would have result opposite that intended and might have other undesirable repercussions. It does however consider useful purpose might be served (sent Nanking as 173 rptd Shanghai as 197) by tactful discussion subject with Wu Ting-chang and others associated with him in its control and management. We concur desirability full Utilization available public statements policy re Japan and interpretive comment as suggested final sentence Contel Jan 30.
In conversation with Kan Lee,21 Butterworth remarked that Hollington Tong’s many friends in Dept recognize difficulties under which he works and have no desire embarrass him but regard it as extraordinary (Urtel 188 Jan 30) that official Govt spokesman should make such gratuitous and factually incorrect statements. Dr. Lee agreed write Tong personal letter in premises and informally apprise FonMin of his action. Dept accordingly considers representations FonMin on this subject unnecessary.
- Secretary General, Chinese Technical Mission in the United States.↩