124.936/12–1245: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Robertson) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 12—8:50 a.m.]
2149. In opinion of Embassy, intra-China radio network indispensable until Chinese facilities adequate to meet requirements (reference USIS Telecon Washington to Shanghai December 11). Urgently request continuation of present USIS radio network. Since preliminary conversations with Foreign Office indicate (refer Embtel 2133, December 10) there may be difficulty in obtaining governmental approval, Embassy suggests attempt be made to continue operation under Army authority. UNRRA and Associated Press both have approached Embassy regarding their continued use of network, saying these facilities indispensable to them. Outside use of network poses problems which may entail embarrassment with Foreign Office, however, and Embassy will cable its views regarding these requests after further consideration.