Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, South and Southeast Asia, Volume XV

461. Telegram From the Embassy in Thailand to the Department of State¹

Bangkok, January 21, 1958—5 p.m.

2107. Joint Embassy–ARMA–USIS message. If approached along lines Deptel 1843,² estimate TG would resist release further information. This based on Thai action toning down initial draft of release in Tousi 294.³ Reluctance make more factual release believed due Sarit’s dominant position in holding together present political structure and desire avoid triggering maneuvers toward succession.

Further, only information officially available Embassy reference seriousness of illness is that in Embtel 1867.⁴ Prefer not disclose to TG extent of information gained other sources.

Unsuccessful attempt gain Thai agreement release further information here could hamper freedom of issuing factual releases in Washington. Therefore, since source of expert information reference Sarit’s condition will be Walter Reed, suggest Washington best spot for release factual information which then can be repeated here for Thai public.

Wilson

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 792.551/1–2158. Confidential.
2. Telegram 1843, January 16, a joint State–Defense–USIA message, reads in part as follows: “We wonder if Thai Government can be persuaded release information concerning probable serious nature Sarit’s condition in order prepare Thai public for worst possibility. If not we may find necessary issue such information should it be confirmed by Walter Reed examination.” (Ibid., 792.551/1–1658)
3. Not printed.
4. Document 457.