27. Telegram 373 to Geneva1

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373. For Johnson.

Reference Downey and Fecteau cases, it would appear the Chicoms have given us useful talking point by their own official reference to eleven POWs as QTE US spies UNQTE (NCNA despatch of August 4). By giving eleven fliers same appellation they apply to Downey and Fecteau, they themselves have destroyed any basis for differential treatment. This would appear to give you excellent opening for hammering home the point that Downey and Fecteau cases should be disposed of on precisely same basis as others which Communists themselves have bracketed in same category.

Give Department your reaction to this line of argumentation in time for further consideration here before your next meeting.

Dulles
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/8–455. Secret. Drafted by McConaughy. The time of transmission is illegible.