893.01/5–549: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 6—4:34 a. m.]
943. My French and British colleagues29 called on me yesterday to discuss question of “de facto recognition” which will arise on formation Central Government, provisional or otherwise, in Communist-occupied China. British Ambassador, who prompted meeting, presented informal memo as basis for discussion. (See Embtel 936 to Dept May 4, repeated Canton 353, Shanghai 501, London 5.) He feels that early consultation among governments of North Atlantic group desirable in order that there may be common action this problem. At same time he feels it desirable we not appear to be acting as a bloc.
Stevenson’s memo contained following considerations:
- (1)
- Progressive disintegration Kmt30 Government.
- (2)
- Unless and until de facto recognition granted, practical difficulty of arranging satisfactory protection our interests on basis consular relations will continue.
- (3)
- Desirability of following Spanish Civil War precedent in appointing diplomatic agents on grant of de facto recognition.
- (4)
- Withdrawal of Ambassadors from Nanking in advance of de facto recognition and before appointment of diplomatic agents would leave only diplomatic representation with “crumbling Kmt” which might have adverse repercussions on nationals, interests Communist-occupied territory. I indicated general approval points 1 and 2 but said I was doubtful as to validity of 3rd and 4th considerations.
I said I did not think we should be under illusion that Communists would be influenced by fact of our having remained Nanking that their attitude, policy toward us was already established and that they would not be satisfied with half measures. I continued that we should not sacrifice possible long range advantages for immediate and relatively minor ones that we should not appear anxious to make first [Page 17] move or take initiative in any kind of recognition to newcomers. Stevenson indicated agreement with my views.
I should be grateful for Department’s guidance for future discussions this subject.
Sent Department, repeated Shanghai 508, OffEmb Canton 359, London 6.