795.00/10–350: Telegram

The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State

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828. 1. Nye, UK High Commissioner, has just informed me that late this afternoon Bajpai, Secretary General MEA, told him that telegram had just been received from Indian Ambassador to Peiping to effect that Chou En-lai had advised Ambassador that Peiping had decided to intervene in Korea if US forces entered North Korea.

2. Bajpai said Nehru in Lucknow but in Nehru’s absence he took on himself to give this important information to Nye with idea that London and Washington be informed so that US and MacArthur would realize gravity of situation.

3. Bajpai did not suggest that US forces be instructed not to cross border but tenor his remarks indicated he hoped such order would be given at least for time being.

4. Panikkar in commenting on Chou En-lai’s statement said he was convinced that Chinese decision was final and that crossing line by US forces would therefore mean extension Korean conflict.

5. Nye has sent copies of communications to Washington so they should be soon in possession Department.

Henderson