793.00/101: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister in China (MacMurray)
Washington, July 28,
1925—2 p.m.
170. Your 292, July 27, 5 P.M.
- Paragraph 3. Phraseology of your suggested change I think too indefinite and might lead to the opinion that we have no serious intentions of considering the whole subject of tariff revision. In view of Department’s No. 125 of July 1, noon, it seems to me that present language is clear and expresses our real intentions. If you are convinced, however, that the words “looking toward ultimate tariff autonomy” are very objectionable I would prefer to omit them rather than to use the indefinite language which you propose. The phrase “comprehensive revision” was used deliberately to include the idea contained in the following passage which I quote from a note, No. 683, of July 7, summarized to you in Department’s 142 July 9, 3 P.M.:9 “The Powers further hope that the tariff conference will be but the first step in a comprehensive revision of the treaties which they express their willingness to undertake at the earliest opportunity.”
- Paragraph 4. I approve substitution of word “safeguards” for word “sanctions.”
- Paragraph 6. I approve your proposed action.
Kellogg