125.7146/3–1949: Telegram
The Consul General at Peiping ( Clubb ) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 20—12:46 a. m.]
441. ReContel 437, March 19. Belgian Consul states he received call today from representatives Military Control Commission who checked passports and whether Consul possessed arms or radio (whether transmitting station or receiver unindicated by interpreter). Reported, but still unconfirmed, British Consul also visited.
That fact and new regulations particularly would seem indicate move on this station may be near.
In view provision regulations that application be made for commercial radio stations, would Department consider it advisable this office take cognizance those regulations (added to those February 2) and make move obtain formal permission operate station as “Consulate General”? Communist approval, of course, unlikely. Alternative would be await move from Communist side. Our position would be stronger if “recognized”. Propose as partial cover in any event ask interview responsible official early date to discuss “matters touching upon Consulate General itself” but should appreciate early instructions whether Department would approve such application for permission if it seems advisable to this office.
Sent Department; repeated Nanking, Shanghai.