794A.00/4–2750: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Strong) to the Secretary of State
657. James Chen called today after long absence, stated Taiwan Democratic Association dead issue as result of entry of several different secret police cliques into question whether should exist or not; naturally if one thinks it should, others will report unfavorably to gain face for themselves. Chen says other members of group advocating Association have now abandoned idea.
Fact K. C. Wu failed renew subject at private dinner April 24 would indicate matter well above his head (Mytel 566, repeated Hong Kong 159, April 8). (Wu claims all persons arrested in Taiwan must be turned over to Provincial Government, but Sun Li-jen states secret police not so obligated, though Chinese military forces must do so. Thus K. C. unable influence secret police groups not with him. May expect their activities increase as situation deteriorates. Sun declares they are very numerous because few remain on mainland, most reached Taiwan, and all have to justify their existence under emergency conditions.)
After plea for armed intervention by US, Chen asked me get him out of Taiwan, which he said was now universally considered as doomed. Expressed regret I could not help him.
Sent Department 657, repeated Hong Kong 199.