Office of the Historian

690B.9321/3–1053:Telegram

No. 46
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Burma

top secret
Washington, March 10, 1953—6:50 p.m.

1423. Allison informed Barrington as follows March 9:

1.
Chinese Nationalist Govt has agreed take further steps prevent attacks on Burmese and stop transport supplies to troops from Formosa.
2.
Chinese Nationalist Govt proposes joint Burmese-Chinese-United States group to study practicability evacuation but has not clearly agreed take requisite action if group and other governments agree evacuation is feasible.
3.
US Govt pressing Chinese Nationalist Govt for early decision and definite statement which can be conveyed Burmese Government.
4.
Re plan GOB place matter before UN Allison expressed our interest in procedure and questioned what might be gained pointing out possible disadvantages summarized below:
a.
Placing item on agenda would give Soviets opportunity exploit;
b.
There might be allegations which debate would publicize that Burma unable control internal affairs;
c.
Communist China might feel compelled intervene claiming right self defense if public airing of question engages its prestige;
d.
Solutions suggested by UN members might be of nature delay or complicate remedial action or be unpalatable to GOB. Desirability of Subcommittee of Peace Observation Commission might be raised;
e.
Consideration should be given what effect public reaction to UN discussions would have at this stage on ability US Govt be helpful;
f.
Burma might be maneuvered in UN departure from neutrality to position on side Soviet bloc.

Barrington will presumably discuss these matters with GOB on his return Rangoon next week and anticipates talks with you. If situation requires you may inform Foreign Minister such portion of foregoing as believe helpful.

For your information Barrington said situation past point where GOB could simply send letter to Secretary General and he would have to ask place matter on agenda or make statement in UN unless something happened permit GOB abandon plan bring matter to UN altogether.

Barrington is calling on Under Secretary today.

Smith