893.00/3–1248: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 13—7:48 a. m.]
454. China Social and Economic Research Society, established in Peiping on March 1st, is composed of liberal elements generally opposed to present policies of Government. Members of Executive Committee are Chou Ping-lin, Chien Chang-ehao, Wu Ching-chiao, Sun Yueh-chi, PIsiao Chien, Pan Kuang-tan, Liu Ta-chung, Chien Tuan-sheng, Tao Meng-huo, Wang Shu-chi, Lou Pang-yen, while Supervisory Committee includes Shao Li-tzu, Wu Yun-chu, and Tung Kuan-hsien. Information from usually reliable source recently in Peiping indicates that Hu Shih,15 although not an official member, is motivating factor behind organization. Source further stated he could name 500 men in Nanking who were sympathetic to reform program advocated by society. Specifically he mentioned Hollington Tong, director Government information office, Cheng Chieh-min, Vice Minister National Defense, Tang Tsung, director general police, and Hsuan Tieh-wu, Shanghai-Woosung garrison commander.
We feel it highly possible that this group may evolve into political party which should be able to exert influence in any future reform within present Government. We are also of opinion that this group may well represent organized support for vice presidential candidacy for General Li Tsung-jen. Despatch follows16 giving detailed information on above mentioned persons and an analysis of the society’s present and future positions in the political scene.
Sent Department 454, Peiping 52.