393.1115/7–3149: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul at Shanghai (McConaughy)
Washington, August 9,
1949—noon.
1555. Re urtel 2976, July 31, pls pass fol message from reps Amer firms named therein to Amer Chamber of Commerce:
“Your memoir July 31, 1949 was reviewed at closed mtg in State Dept August 4th, attended by reps of: Natl City Bank, Chase Bank, Bank of America, Standard Vacuum, Caltex, Ebasco Internatl, Internatl Gen Electric, Internatl Tel. & Tel. and their reply is as follows:
- ‘1. While most questions you present for consideration involve expression policy on part U.S. Govt the reps of above companies feel that first step which shld be taken by Amer companies Shanghai wld be ascertain immed how many their Natls cld obtain exit visas. It was consensus opinion that all individuals selected by their companies for evacuation shld make immediate application for exit visas. We believe fon employees other nationalities shld also take similar steps after checking their respective consulates.
- 2. With regard transportation, we understand arrangements can be made when requirements known for evacuation Shanghai; however, before arrangements are completed will be necessary know number of persons involved by nationalities. When time comes for actual evacuation no difficulty is anticipated obtaining [Page 1287] safe conduct permission from Nationalist Govt but responsibility for leaving Shanghai will be matter which you will have to work out with local auths.
- 3. We fully appreciate dire situation under which you carrying on and you may rest assured we will do everything possible to assist from this end. All above mentioned companies, and presumably others as well, will cable such additional instrs their local reps as may be found appropriate, taking into consideration need for utilizing careful wording in open messages.
- 4. It is presumed the State Dept will reply separately on matters beyond our province.’”
Acheson