393.1115/7–2149: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China ( Clark )98, at Canton

TelCan 475. In view renewal Commie southward drive, apparently of large-scale character, Dept desires, unless you perceive objection, issuance renewed warnings on urgent basis to all Amer cit[izen]s in Kwangtung, Kwangsi, Fukien and, so far as possible, Kiangsi and Hunan. Dept recommends warning be issued in name of Off Emb [with cooperation of ConGen],98a in view nature proposed warning and as you and staff Off Emb will not be in Canton at time Commie takeover. Suggest text warning be along fol lines:

“Reference is made to the statement issued by the Amer ConGen Canton on Nov 16, 1948,99 warning Amer cits residing in this consular district who were not prepared to remain under possibly hazardous conditions that they should plan at once to move to places of safety. In view of the renewal of hostilities in southern China, this warning is now being repeated in order that Amer cits in areas which may be affected by the renewal of hostilities in southern China may give the most serious consideration to the possible jeopardy in which they may be placed should they remain in the areas in question.

“In this regard attention is called to fact that the Chi Commie auths have thus far, in areas under their control, demonstrated in many cases an inability or unwillingness to afford adequate protection to foreigners or to safeguard their individual liberties, particularly in connection with arrest, detention, trial and mob action. Moreover, no satisfactory procedure has thus far been afforded foreigners wishing to secure permits for exit from China or even for travel between points in Commie-controlled China.

“In view of the possibility that communications may be seriously disrupted in the near future, Amers are advised to utilize existing transportation facilities while they are still available.”

Off Emb and ConGen shld furnish Amers current info re travel facilities to Hong Kong and billeting possibilities that port.

[Page 1271]

For purpose notification Kiangsi [and] Hunan Amers see list Hankow’s despatch No. 13, April 6, 19491 (copy to ConGen Canton). You may wish give initial notice by telegram principal Amer missions remoter areas.

Inform Dept final text of warning prior to release enable Dept arrange simultaneous publicity.

Acheson
  1. Repeated to the Ambassador in China, the Consul General at Shanghai, the Consul at Chungking, the Consul General at Hong Kong, and the Consul at Kunming as Nos. 863, 1447, 52, 622, and 51, respectively.
  2. Brackets appear in the source text.
  3. Department of State Bulletin, January 2, 1049, p. 29.
  4. Not printed.