792.94/135
Memorandum by Mr. Willys R. Peck of the Division of Far Eastern Affairs22
Reference telegram 371 of July 28, 1 p.m., from Bangkok. The American Minister at Bangkok reports, inter alia, that the Thai Government has suggested to him that the American Government announce publicly that it intends to assist Thailand. In an earlier telegram the Minister reported that he had been informed by his British colleague that the Prime Minister insisted that the only way in which Japanese aggression could be stopped would be for the United States and Great Britain to threaten the use of military force if Japan proceeded beyond a fixed limit in putting pressure on Thailand.
It seems highly inadvisable to follow either of the courses of action suggested by the Thai Government. It is hardly necessary to adduce arguments against a threat of force based upon the results of Japanese aggression in Thailand.
If a declaration by the United States of an intention to assist Thailand in every possible way were to be made, one effect would be to show that the Thai Government had been conducting itself toward the United States in a friendly way and this would protect the Thai Government from the accusation that it had been pursuing a one-sided, pro-Japanese policy. Another effect would be that the Japanese Government could adduce the declaration as evidence supporting its reported assertions that Great Britain and the United States are scheming against Japan in Thailand. The only effect of such a declaration on the position of the United States would be to further embroil this country in the Far East in an undesirable manner.
It is suggested that, for the time being at least, no reply be made to Bangkok’s telegram in reference.
- Initialed by the Chief of the Division (Hamilton).↩