393.1115/9–2149: Telegram
The Consul at Shanghai (McConaughy) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 21—8:23 a. m.]
3962. ReContel 3932, September 19, regarding appeal of American Association against withholding exit permits from American citizens. Robert Henry, President Association, called Alien Affairs Bureau noon September 19 to deliver memorandum and discuss matter. Front office sent memorandum in to Director Chang Han-fu who read it. Henry not received personally by Chang but by second-ranking official Feng Chih-ho. Feng expressed surprise after reading memorandum. Stated he thought foreigners were pleased at large number exit visas issued. He said it should be understood responsible person required take place foreign technicians or executives leaving Shanghai. Henry pointed out wholesale holding foreign executives at behest labor unions was hardly desirable. Feng admitted procedures still unsettled.
Feng asked what individuals had been refused exit permits. Henry mentioned several and offered provide complete list if required.
[Page 1346]Feng said American Association could not represent individuals and each individual having complaint should present himself personally at Alien Affairs Bureau.
Feng then returned memorandum and translation to Henry (thus in effect refusing accept with request that Association ask individuals concerned to call at Alien Affairs Bureau). Henry describes Feng’s attitude as “fair and not antagonistic”.
Three Americans in the withheld exit permit group are calling at Alien Affairs Bureau to test readiness authorities reconsider their cases. Meanwhile Han Ming will endeavor sound Chang personally on his real attitude. Han suggests that, if Chang’s office shows no disposition make concessions Association, then direct appeal to SMCC. (While it would presumably be too late by that time for applicants concerned to embark Gordon, such procedure might nevertheless prove beneficial from standpoint of later ship or plane departure facilities.)
Please withhold VOA press publicity pending clearance Gordon.
Please repeat paraphrase this telegram and ConGentel 3932 to Chase and National City Bank and Bank of America for restricted distribution to American firms having branch offices here.