851G.01/12–2849: Telegram
The Ambassador in Thailand (Stanton) to the Secretary of State
1100. Department please repeat London, Paris;1 pouched as airgram to New Delhi, Manila, Batavia, Karachi, Saigon, Singapore. In recent conservation Prime Minister2 concerning situation Indochina which included mention likelihood early ratification French Assembly of March 8 agreements, he indicated no change attitude on question recognition Bao Dai. (Deptel 70 [704] December 23). Prime Minister continues reiterate that while Thailand Government opposed formation Communist Government in Indochina under Ho Chi Minh they reluctant recognize Bao Dai until full control vested in him by French and he receives substantial popular support. Same views expressed by Prime Minister to Malcolm MacDonald when latter discussed recognition Bao Dai during his recent visit Bangkok. I feel certain therefore and my British colleague concurs we cannot expect Thailand Government take initiative recognition Bao Dai, Thailand position based firstly on belief Bao Dai essentially French puppet, and secondly, apprehension Vietnamese in Thailand numbering approximately 40,000 majority of whom support Ho Chi Minh might cause trouble.