893.00/4–1549: Telegram
The Vice Consul at Chungking (McGeary) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:02 p. m.]
40. Chang Tu-lun, Secretary General Political Commission [of] Southwest Military Political Administration, former mayor Chungking, former governor Hupeh, states if peace talks fail Chang Chun will return from Nanking with full powers for control of southwest. This would mean full autonomy with only nominal ties to Li and Ho government.
Chang Tu-lun insists leaders this area will resist Communists (contrary to other information we have reported) but admits available forces inadequate if Communists place major emphasis on conquest Szech[uan]. He discounts likelihood troop defections but admits students, peasants and labor elements might create serious trouble in event Communist attack.
He states present Sikang unrest will not result in removal of Liu Wen-hui10 but increased powers for Chang Chun might be followed by replacement top officials if they cannot or do not produce although [Page 242] main effort will be to obtain capable second and middle rank officials.
Despatch follows.11
Sent Nanking 68, repeated Canton 17, Department 40.