893.113 Radio/14: Telegram
The Minister in China (MacMurray) to the Secretary of State
[Received 8:55 p.m.]
415. 1. Department’s 166, May 18, 6 p.m., repeated to Shanghai with following instructions.
“[Unless?] steps have been taken to modify the prohibition of importation of radio equipment in a way to obviate loss to legitimate American interests, you should bring to the attention of the Chinese Government the hardship inflicted upon American importers by a lack of reasonable notice and urge extension of time for entry of goods now in transit.
(2) Please report as to possible remedial measures effected by Chinese Maritime Customs as referred to in your telegram. If prompt representations appear expedient, you are authorized to utilize Department’s instruction to the Legation in representations to Chinese authorities.”
2. In telegram of May 22, 11 a.m., Cunningham reported that Customs has been unable to effect remedial measures and that Ministry of War has informed an American importer that no machinery exists for granting permission to import radio equipment. In view of rapid developments in political situation, Cunningham deemed immediate action expedient and made representations to the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the sense of the Department’s May 18, 6 p.m., to the Legation.