702.0093/4–2149: Telegram
The Consul General at Peiping (Clubb) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 22—1:18 a. m.]
658. [To Nanking:] April 19, 3 p. m. ReContel 646, April 18.56 Consulate today decided against move now considering it probably be fruitless. Significance US manner Communist return Consulate’s note unclear but consensus opinion present peace negotiations if bear fruit might affect Consulate’s position. One official remarked reliable report that senior Yenching professor who advising Communist foreign affairs proposed Consulates’ function Communist areas essentially unnecessary, matters handled as in Soviet with trade channelized through government organs. If argue that acceptance this doctrine disregards presence in China consider[able] foreign colony certain centers, it might be deduced corollary Communist Prop [sic] situation envisages ultimate reduction foreign colony to zero.
Note exit permits granted by Communists with speedy entry permits granted only isolated instances. It must be concluded strict adherence present line would be one natural feature of continued residence of Communist China in Soviet satellite camp.
[Page 1081]Considered same meeting: 1—Communists perused communication in detail (it was returned in new cover) and possibly gave it serious consideration on high levels; 2—Formal statement or move re Consulates is expected near future; 3—Possibly with matter brought attention Communist senior authorities adjustment in practice some of points brought to Communist attention expected.
Sent Nanking 410, repeated Department Canton 65, Shanghai 453.