123 Ward, Angus I.: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Acting Political Adviser in Japan (Sebald)
Washington, December
5, 1949—6 p. m.
630. Dept understands correspondents seek board Lakeland Victory Kobe to Tientsin where ship may pick up Ward and party from Mukden. SS Co advised Dept correspondents’ efforts. Dept interposed no objections provided accommodations for round trip addition to Ward party but suggested feasible solution might be pool arrangement with one person representing all press radio another all still photographers and third newsreels.
Urgently instruct Kobe brief any correspondents making trip along following lines:
- 1.
- Dept unable promise Ward depart via Lakeland Victory. Three ships due Tientsin about same time. Commies may make decision for Ward.
- 2.
- Must realize calling Commie port and Commies extremely sensitive security. Urge utmost discretion all.
- 3.
- Warn photographers strong possibility Commie objections taking pictures and danger arrest seizure films equipment by Commies.
- 4.
- Main US interest is get Ward and party safely out and hope none will endanger his departure by trying take pictures or interview him during actual boarding which might result prevention Ward party departure and arrest correspondents.
- 5.
- Dept recommends all wait until ship safely at sea.
Acheson