FE files, lot 55 D 128: Telegram
The Commander in Chief, Far East (Clark) to the Joint Chiefs of Staff
secret
operational immediate
operational immediate
Tokyo, July 3, 1952—4:45
p.m.
C 51286. This msg in 2 parts.
Part 1. Fol comments on HNC 13601 received from Harrison as HNC 1361.
- “1. Communist statement in todays meeting in my opinion offers hope of early armistice. Communists accept not only principle but wording of para 51. This is a new concession on their part and recognizes that at time of signing of armistice we will repatriate only those held in custody at that time as prisoners of war. Communists recognize that there will be a reclassification of prisoners of war.
- 2. I intend to agree to executive sessions beginning 4 July.
- 3. Recommend:
- a.
- Immediate authority to release latest screening results to Communists.2
- b.
- Final rosters of prisoners of war to be repatriated be furnished me as soon as possible.
- c.
- No public release of either new figure or lists until after we reach some agreement with Communists, or fail to reach one.
- 4. Ref Communist request for executive sessions, the Communist correspondent, Winnington, on 1 July dropped unsolicited hint to UNC newsmen that meetings would get nowhere unless they went into executive session. Since this remark was made prior to UNC statement of 1 July it may be that Communist suggestion today for executive sessions was under active consideration by them prior to 1 July and our 1 July statement merely firmed up their thinking.”
Part 2.
- 1.
- I note Harrison’s optimism for an early armistice. I cannot share this optimism without further elaboration by the Communists. Harrison’s evaluation may be the result of having heard and seen the statements delivered.
- 2.
- I am approving only Harrison’s recommendation to meet in executive session.
- 3.
- Request that your decision be forwarded as soon as possible on my CX 51050.3