894A.20/10–3149: Telegram
The Consul General at Taipei (Macdonald) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 31—2:21 p. m.]
640. For Butterworth. ReDeptel 412. Although from our point of view Chen Cheng leaves much to be desired his presence creates fewer problems than the Generalissimo’s. Suggest therefore that Department consider conveying any US Government views to Chen instead of Generalissimo unless request for Chen’s removal is contemplated which is not recommended. Any apparent US support of Generalissimo might defer reported locally plotted action to remove him for China’s good and might maintain belief only Generalissimo and Madam can get outside aid. Although Chen is not popular among Taiwanese, he is not subjected by Chinese here and elsewhere to same charges as Generalissimo. If we must deal with one as we apparently must, Chen appears preferable. Also Chen would be principal Formosan authority implementing any agreed program since Generalissimo has not interfered extensively in strictly local administration.
Gist of US views could subsequently be got informally to Generalissimo through Wang Shih-chieh or K. C. Wu.
Also trust Department will supply in addition to proposed statement some specific suggestions for political and economic improvement. These might include (1) greater use of Tarring, as economic adviser, (2) unification of military including supplies under Sun Li-jen, (3) granting of city and district local self government soonest, (4) elevation of selected Taiwanese to positions of importance near government, (5) granting sufficient freedom of press to permit Taiwanese to express selves in moderation, (6) elimination of Kmt carpet baggers from public trough.
Suggestions could be presented confidentially for consideration and subsequent discussion.
At this stage believe we should not overlook statement in Chen Cheng’s letter to SCAP23 carried by Sun Li-jen requesting SCAP [Page 404] advice and guidance. Also Chen’s September statement indicating need and willingness for outside aid. Have requested Strong to defer action.
- Not printed.↩