893.00/5–1449: Telegram
The Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 15—3:55 a. m.]
Cantel 378. … Source in touch with Li Tsung-jen supporters in Legislative Yuan reports this group in process organization anti-Communist movement to continue resistance after Communists control entire country. Organization will have overt phase with headquarters outside China, initially Hong Kong, similar old KmtRC.12 Overt phase will take form political party and will carry out propaganda work in foreign countries, organize overseas Chinese and raise funds from these and other sources. Party will also have underground phase, existence and character of which known only to small group, for purpose clandestine operations China proper.
Li Tsung-jen aware general plans of group and approves them. When unable remain longer China proper he may assume leadership. Nucleus group going Hong Kong shortly open offices publish magazine. Plans send mission to US shortly with aim acquainting American [Page 316] officials and public their existence and aims. Similar missions planned for Southeast Asia.
Basic aim of organization is attempt to further and exploit factionalism latent in Sino Communist Party so as to break down present pro-Soviet orientation and permit change toward multi-party government which would allow them exercise political influence. They appear aware difficulties this task but say they must make attempt. While status progress of group in organizing is unknown, fuller details will be obtained later. At present initial preparations underground have been made with certain group members staying behind Nanking and Shanghai.
So far as we are aware, there is no other organization with comparably advanced plans for independent political action within Communist-dominated China. If properly led, organization described above has considerable potentialities as resistance movement. Persons attached to it are reputable, well-known liberals who should be able develop considerable following both within China and among overseas Chinese. We intend continue maintain contact with them and report significant developments to Department. Meanwhile we would appreciate any suggestions Department may care to make along lines possibility utilizing their underground for propaganda and similar activities.
- Kuomintang Revolutionary Committee, headed by Marshal Li Chi-shen.↩