892.01/11–2445: Telegram
The Political Adviser in Siam (Yost) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 27—9:50 a.m.]
19. Growing dissatisfaction among Siamese with present Government under control of the Revolutionary Party arises from (1) its long tenure of office, (2) its failure to reestablish normal relations with Britain and United States, and (3) to solve internal problems of inflation and corruption among civil officials. Siamese speak constantly of desire for capable Government satisfactory to Britain and U. S. [Here follows a reference to rumors of abdication by the King and of his possible successors.] However, unless monarch assumed more authority than at present change of monarch not as significant as possible shift away from current control of Revolutionary Party. It is generally known that British are making efforts through pro-British Siamese to organize a party with political influence but as yet have secured no outstanding leaders. In conversation with Bird was informed that British dislike Revolutionary Party leaders almost without exception and regard their regime as inimical to welfare of Siam and that British would like to see a change for the better. In this connection Siamese believe that British are attempting to achieve their ends by pressing harsh terms on Siamese while making unofficial promises that if a government is set up which is satisfactory to the British the actual implementation on terms will be mild. This ties in with Bird comment to us that after agreement is signed if Siamese feel terms are too harsh they can open negotiations for amelioration.
[Page 1376]It becomes increasingly clear that Britain is using peace terms to strengthen its already preponderant political and economic influence in Siam. Respectfully suggest that continued delay by U. S. to resume diplomatic relations is likely to be increasingly interpreted by Siamese as U. S. support of British terms and to contribute to forcing Siam into British hands. We believe that these facts lend weight to recommendations contained in my #14, dated November 21.