793.04119/439: Telegram
The Chargé in the United Kingdom (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 15—4:10 p.m.]
770. The substance of your 443, August 12, 6 p.m.,62 was communicated orally and informally to the Foreign Office today. A copy of the instructions to Ambassador Craigie outlined in my 748, August 11, 7 p.m., was telegraphed to the British Ambassador in China who has now replied that these instructions go beyond the Chinese request, the essence of which he says was the suggestion for a simultaneous parallel approach to the Japanese by the United States, British and possibly French Governments. I understand that Ambassador Kerr is doubtful of the advisability of the British approaching the Japanese alone and has informed the Foreign Office that he would be reluctant for this to be done until he has had time to consider the matter and to consult with the Chinese. He will then send his further recommendations. The Foreign Office is telegraphing to Ambassador Kerr tonight the substance of the American views, with which the official said he agreed. The Chinese have not been informed of the instructions sent to Ambassador Craigie.
The Foreign Office appears to understand clearly our position and, in view of our attitude and of the doubts expressed by the British Ambassador in China as to the acceptability of a British approach to the Japanese alone, it was stated by the official that they would probably decide not to take the action at this time. He thought it would be useful, however, for Ambassador Craigie to have the exchange of views with Mr. Grew and that he would inform me of further developments and of the recommendations which may be expected from the Ambassador in China.