893.01/10–1549: Telegram
The Chargé in the Soviet Union (Barbour) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 15—10:18 a. m.]
2601. In connection British note to Peiping Government (Department infotels October 14, 4 a. m., and 4 p. m.26) we feel it is impossible to avoid conclusion that British have deliberately taken strong step toward recognition or at least establishment satisfactory working relations with CPG despite very recent agreements to make no move without consultation. Fact that Department was not approached by British Embassy Washington until 4 days after delivery note to CPG suggests British well aware of unfavorable reception.
British action in sending note may indicate British determination not to be maneuvered by us into position of sharing our current unpopularity in China through participation in what British may consider to be unnecessary and undesirable pressure activities. British action seriously compromises highly desirable and previously agreed upon policy of coordinated Western action toward CPG.
We agree with London Embassy that if we are to attempt to hide schism which in fact has developed only step we can take now is to make somewhat similar approach. However, we do not recommend addressing any note to CPG as such. Nor do we believe that unilateral nature, of British approach can successfully be concealed at this time.
We feel that British approach reveals anxiety to profit by trade on short term basis at expense of grave long range policy considerations, that their commercial honeymoon with CPG will be short-lived and of little or no permanent advantage to British, except that Chinese pressure on Hong Kong may be postponed until period when CPG will be obliged to handle matter through diplomatic channels. Urge we continue to exert every effort to win British cooperation with our proposed policy not to bolster CPG economy, which would assist CPG in solving its economic problems and would reduce onus on USSR to extend help to China.
[Page 131]Our view USSR and CCP must be delighted with British approach to CPG, and possibility of propaganda exploitation to embarrassment of West, not to mention British relations with Chinese Nationalist Government, is obvious.
Department pass London 285, Paris for Kirk27 370.