Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, China, Volume III

282. Telegram From the Acting Consul General in Hong Kong (Dillon) to the Department of State¹

Hong Kong, September 11, 1957—4 p.m.

425. Herter–Richards trip. From Herter. Have had session with 14 American news, radio and television correspondents here this morning who are awaiting hopefully some break so that they can get into Communist China. As you may imagine, they are in a most unhappy frame of mind particularly since they feel that the no reciprocity statement in your original announcement² was intentionally so phrased as to invite refusal for their admission. At present moment they are most concerned with mechanics of possible applications from Communist China for admission Chinese newspapermen to United States and seem very hopeful that if such mechanics can be overcome United States Government will permit entry of such newspapermen to United States.

They seem confused on two matters and have been queried on these by Communist press representative BIQ Hong Kong. The first is some definition with respect to reciprocity and the second with criteria which the Chinese newspapermen would have to meet in order to qualify for entry into United States. With respect to first question have made quite clear to them that reciprocity with respect to group admission to United States impossible under our law and that each application must be passed upon separately. With respect to second have told them that while I was in no position to outline criteria assumed that United States Government would not consider any application except from bona fide press representatives known to be professional full-time reporter Chinese paper.

One correspondent asked me if I would approve invitation by American press to small group genuine Communist China press representatives come to United States as possible mechanism for breaking log jam. This was off record and I assured him that I could give no official approval such suggestion but personally see no objection this being done on their own responsibility. All of correspondents feel that for propaganda purposes it would be valuable have clearer definition from you on meaning of reciprocity as well as some indication we do not fear what a few Chinese correspondents which might be admitted to United States would report from United States. Apparently correspondents waiting here have been subjected to considerable ribbing by local Communist reporters and are presently in unhappy mood of frustration.

I think session was worthwhile but of course could do little to counter attitude of frustration except repeat that burden now on Chinese Communist government.

Will send report on Hong Kong separately after departure.³ Best.

Dillon

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 110.12–HE/9–1157. Confidential.
2. See Document 279.
3. In telegram 251 from Taipei, September 13, Herter described his September 10–12 visit to Hong Kong as “delightful but not too productive”. The visit did reinforce, however, “our previously held view that Hong Kong is extremely valuable listening post”. (Department of State, Central Files, 110.12–HE/9–1357)