Office of the Historian

218. Telegram From the Embassy in Japan to the Department of State1

Tokyo, December 13, 1955—11 a.m.

1334. Eyes only for Secretary. Re Emb’s 1315 and 1323.2 I believe you should know that message sent in Embassy’s 1323 was primarily work of Congressmen Judd and Byrd, although other members of group unhesitatingly signed message. There was some indication, however, that if it had not been for Judd’s vehemence on this matter and strong backing given him by Byrd that other Committee members might have been content with message they had sent from Taipei. I have learned that during reception given committee by FonMin Judd and Byrd brought up question of “package deal” with various Japanese present and they were fortified in their stand by statement of … that although Chinese Nationalists’ action in vetoing membership proposal would go against Japan’s interest, nevertheless, he admired moral position of Chinese Nationalists. Later at dinner at Embassy in evening … made similar statement. …

During interview with Prime Minister Hatoyama, Congressman Byrd raised this issue and expressed hope that Japanese government would understand that true villain in matter was Soviet Union and not Nationalist China. Judd went so far as to say that there were [Page 450] many Americans in Congress and out who disapproved of present United States Government stand on this question. Hatoyama blandly replied that he greatly appreciated efforts President Eisenhower had made to obtain agreement of Chiang Kai-shek not to use veto. Fact that Shigemitsu called me in late yesterday to renew plea for our intervention with Republic of China, as reported in Emb’s 1332,3 indicates that Japanese government view has not changed in this matter and that it will take serious view of veto action by Chinese Nationalists. …

It is hoped above information will be helpful if upon their return Congressmen allege that Japanese leaders approved their stand on vetoing “package” proposal.

Allison
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 310.2/12–1255. Secret; Priority.↩
  2. Documents 211 and 214.↩
  3. Not printed. (Department of State, Central Files, 310.2/12–1255)↩