795.00/5–3152: Telegram

The Joint Chiefs of Staff to the Commander in Chief Far East (Clark)1

top secret
operational immediate

JCS 908998. From JCS.

1.
In view of confused and unsettled public attitudes toward recent events involving POWs held by UNC, we do not consider it advisable to approve at this time recommendation for unilateral suspension of mtgs contained in CX 683552 and HNC 1236.3 Possible advantages of unilateral suspension set forth in HNC 1236 are recognized. However, it is considered that present disadvantages of unilateral suspension are overriding in terms of need for continued domestic and internatl support [Page 204] for UNC. Also, among other disadvantages, is fact that unilateral suspension by UNC would require Communists to take initiative for any subsequent mtgs and thus make it more difficult for them to concede to UNC posn.
2.
In view of above, continued sessions afford excellent opportunity to intensify propaganda pressures on Communists to put them increasingly on defensive to maintain and utilize present strong worldwide support for UNC posn on POWs for purpose of achieving armistice. Considered here essential UNC del make full and appropriate statements at every session, emphasizing basic humanitarian principles of UNC posn and utilizing folg themes which bring out most vulnerable weaknesses of Communist posn:
A.
Screening entered into in good faith with tacit appvl of Communists, and screening procedures were scrupulously fair.
B.
UNC impartial rescreening proposal is direct refutation of Communist statements on forceful retention of POWs.
C.
Communists are seeking to compel UNC to jeopardize lives of POWs by insisting UNC use force and violence in sending POWs to Communists against their will.
  1. A marginal notation on the source text indicated that the Secretary of State saw this telegram.
  2. Not printed, but see footnote 3, p. 194.
  3. Dated May 12, p. 193.