2.
62
I can,
activities and instigator of every international movement
to checkmate Japan with United states as a somewhat reluctant
second (temporary flurry caused by Roosevelt's speech has
almost been forgotten). It is obvious that with feeling inflamed
as it is in Japan today the continuation of exacerbation of
public opinion by this method is a dangerous process. We must
I think make up our minds whether or no we are prepared for
trouble with this country. If not then a concerted effort
must be made promptly by both governments to put the brake on.
My concrete suggestions are (1) if I could be informed
that His Majesty's Government will do whatever is in their
power to exercise moderating influence on British press.
with this assurance, bring strong pressure to bear on Japanese
government to do the same (our press seems to have lost all
sense of proportion and in its efforts to champion the cause of
China is doing irreparable harm to our own interests here).
(2) Serious consideration should be given to stop arms traffic
via Hongkong (whether by general prohibition or export to both sides or otherwise). (3) Every effort should he made to improve
relations between British and Japanese military authorities in
Shanghai. I realize that the role of our authorities in Shanghai
is a very difficult one but there never was a moment when
restraint and display of impartiality were more necessary than
now.
I do not of course suggest that any change in our policy
of resolutely defending our own interests whenever these are
threatened. In this sphere I have always found a readiness to
meet us halfway and I should feel far more confident of being
able to defend these in the future if our press could display
more impartiality in the issue as between Japan and China.
Lest