102.22/6–1749: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot)
1232. ReDeptel 1215 Jun 16. Dept informed Navy has sent instrs to AstALUSNA Shanghai directing him to negotiate “equitable settlement” with laborers after consultation with ConGen. Further informed funds being made available by Navy this purpose. Navy instructing Adm Badger58 furnish ConGen with list former employees.
Dept believes most desirable negots and settlement claims be handled primarily by AstALUSNA, but desires ConGen extend all practicable assistance in examining claims. ConGen shld avoid far as possible giving any indication US Govt acting this matter as result intimidation or “blackmail” tactics laborers but rather that US anxious investigate all charges underpayment former US Govt employees and effect legitimate compensation. This regard recommend careful screening all claims submitted to insure legitimacy and caution be exercised avoid giving impression US Govt an easy touch.
- Vice Adm. Oscar C. Badger, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces in the Western Pacific (ComNavWesPac).↩