794C.0221/12–2653: Telegram
No. 725
The Ambassador in Japan (Allison) to the Department of State
1586. When I showed Okazaki advance text of Secretary’s statement emphasizing United States intended to retain administrative control of remainder of Ryukyus during “foreseeable future”, he said grimly, “I guess it can’t be helped”. He later during conversation referred to statement often attributed to Quezon regarding Philippine desires for independence that it was better to live in poverty and be independent than be prosperous under foreign ruler. However Okazaki was on whole philosophical on matter and recognized realities of situation.
Much of good effect of Secretary’s statement has been spoiled by United Press story from Washington by-line of Steward Hensley which begins “American officials Thursday said that it would be reasonably safe to predict that entire chain of Ryukyu Islands [Page 1572] eventually will be returned outright to Japan instead of being placed under UN trusteeship as was envisaged in Japanese peace treaty.” Story appears under such headlines as “Return of all Ryukyus seen” and “Japan is seen slated to get Ryukyus back”. Body of story quotes American officials as saying return of Amami Oshima group had set “a precedent” which probably would be followed when conditions permit relinquishment of American control over rest of group. Although Hensley’s story does point out that United States intends to stay for foreseeable future, nevertheless its whole emphasis is on future return of Ryukyus rather than indefinite American administration.