Lot 55D128: Black Book, Tab 17: Telegram
The Commander in Chief, Far East (Ridgway) to the Joint Chiefs of Staff
C–58662. CINCUNC Adv HNC 514 for info.
“Further to HNC 513.1 Entire session was devoted to Communists providing answers to questions posed by UNC. Key points not previously reported are as follows:
“(1) Communists will accept joint inspection behind their lines as long as inspectors are from neutral countries. They agree that the composition of the inspection teams will be mixed as between neutrals selected by us, and neutrals selected by them. All neutral nations must be agreed upon by both sides.
“(2) The authority and activity of the MAC shall be strictly limited to the demilitarized zone, since MAC is to be made up of belligerents. Belligerents cannot be permitted in rear areas.
“(3) Communists gave no hint as to what neutral countries they have in mind. They said they would give that information later after the principle was accepted.
“(4) Communists deferred answering whether the neutral inspecting organ was to be subject to the authority and direction of the MAC.
“(5) Communists stated that whether inspection was by air or ground methods was to be determined by the neutral inspecting organ.
“(6) Whether inspecting teams would be stationed at ports of entry [Page 1240] or go to them from time to time was to be determined by the inspecting organ.
“(7) All answers by Communists held to strict prohibition of replacement, replenishment, and rotation except in the case of personnel rejoining their units.
“(8) The scope of supervision contemplated in principle 6 is strictly limited to introduction of forces, weapons, and ammo into Korea. Airplanes are considered as weapons.
“(9) Places to be inspected would be determined in the armistice agreement.
“(10) Except for inspection by the MAC in the demilitarized zone and inspection of selected ports of entry by the neutral inspecting organ, all inspection is to be by each side within its own territory.
“(11) Communists deferred answers as to what they mean by ‘coastal’ as applied to islands and waters.
“It was apparent that the Communists sub-delegation had not been instructed completely as to the application of their own proposals, particularly relationship of neutral organ and MAC. Recessed 1600 to convene at 1300 tomorrow. Signed Joy.”