Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, China and Japan, Volume XIV, Part 2

693.94/2–152: Telegram

No. 492
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Gifford) to the Department of State

confidential

London, February 1, 1952—3 p.m.

3340. Embtel 3308, January 30.¹ Emb understands on good authority Morrison had not been inclined to take too seriously charges Yoshida letter was breach of Dulles-Morrison agreement but was willing lend his support these charges, largely for political purposes.

Morrison’s relative equanimity, however, shattered on reading Alsop column appearing in Jan 30 issue, Paris Herald Tribune headed “row over Formosa,” especially implication FonOff knew before Dulles visit to London last June Yoshida had already decided extend limited recognition to Natl Govt. In order defend himself from charges of double-dealing, especially from his own party’s backbenchers, he is now talking about active participation in attack on govt on subject Yoshida letter, and is contemplating public release of text of agreement.

Gifford

1. This telegram, a résumé of debate on the Yoshida letter in the House of Commons on Jan. 30, is not printed. (693.94/1–3052)