393.0015/4–249: Telegram
The Consul at Tsingtao (Strong) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:29 p. m.]
169. Earlier emergency evacuation plans for Tsingtao were able cover all non-Asiatics plus Filipinos view availability Shanghai as destination for persons unable land other foreign areas without specific permits.
Now and in absence information to contrary it appears such evacuation strictly could be granted only Americans and Filipinos view fact Japan expected be destination any US Navy vessel carrying evacuees.
US Navy will accept for emergency evacuation such foreign nationals as designated by Consulate General but we doubtful whether Consulate General can designate British, French, Dutch, Italians, stateless, Soviets, etc., for initial evacuation to Japan though British, French, Dutch doubtless able proceed thence to national possessions Far East. Consulate General unaware any opportunity for others find safe haven Far East.
Request urgent instructions view possibility need implement emergency evacuation plans within near future. Desire indication whether alien wives, children of Americans included in permission to American citizens enter Japan.
[Page 1254]Sent Department, repeated OffEmb Canton, information copy by hand to ComNavWesPac.