893.01/6–2849: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in China (Stuart)
763. Urtel 1396, June 28. Decision detail Strong [to] Chungking prior to movement Natl Govt and solely in dipl capacity taken by Dept only after mature consideration all pertinent factors including US public opinion. Action also related to notification from FonOff of Chi Govt intention move to Chungking when situation required. Moreover, as reported in Cantel 592, June 15 (rptd Nanking 395), Canton reps Brit, Fr, Neth, Ital and Port all enthusiastic over idea and agreed recommend strongly that their Govts adopt similar procedure. Dept has recd no further info from Canton indicating Govts concerned unwilling follow US lead this matter.
Regardless action taken by other govts, however, Dept of opinion that continuity of contact on dipl level shld be maintained with Natl Govt as long as that Govt continues function on mainland and enjoy internatl recognition as sole Govt China. Shld transfer Govt to Chungking prove abortive Strong’s dipl status cld be withdrawn and he assigned as Consul; but for present Dept intends proceed as outlined telCan 315 June 10 (rptd Nanking as 687).