Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The Far East: China, Volume VIII

893.00/11–2849: Telegram

The Vice Consul at Kumming (Lutkins) to the Secretary of State

Kunming, November 28, 1949—6 p. m.
[Received November 29—2:33 a. m.]

263. Reply Deptel 127, November 22 conveyed to group representative. He called again today to report a further meeting which decided to make a final approach to US Government. Group wished to emphasize belief that any aid would prove effective and would not be necessary to send US troops. Secondly, stated that group willing to declare Yunnan’s independence first and then ask US protection; argue this would then not be intervention.

Implied provincial independence would be declared in any case. Local authorities would then negotiate with US Government and Communists. If unable secure favorable terms from either side, would then retreat into Burma and await aid there. Representative stated Governor Lu Han fully aware of and sympathetic to movement.

I strongly doubt that any full scale retreat into Burma will materialize. Settlement with Communists far more probable.

Sent Department 263; Department pass OffEmb Hong Kong telCan 100.

Lutkins