793.94/11406: Telegram

The Second Secretary of Embassy in China (Atcheson) to the Secretary of State

979. Embassy’s 974, November 29, 8 p.m.

1.
International Committee November 30th arranged for civilian associated in Shanghai to inform Japanese Embassy that Chinese authorities here had agreed in detail to the stipulation of the safety zone proposal and were providing rice and other practical assistance.
2.
Following message from Nanking Committee from Shanghai Associated now received by Embassy in Shanghai December 1st.

“Japanese authorities have duly noted request for safety zone but regret cannot grant it. In the event of Chinese forces misbehavior towards civilians and/or property cannot assume responsibility but they themselves will endeavor to respect the district as far as consistent with military necessity. (Signed) Jacquinot”.

3.
Sent Department. Repeated Hankow, Peiping. Peiping kindly repeat to Tokyo.
Atcheson