JAPAN
Have been endeavouring to obtain reactions of United Kingdom
Government to German Japanese pact but even now difficult to
obtain any definite view as to possible effect on Japanese
actions. Pact regarded as far more favourable to Germany and Italy
than to Japan unless containing some secret clause not disclosed
and felt that the Japanese being a cautious people unlikely to
take any immediate action. This view was confirmed by Lothian's
[1] conversation with Hull [2] and opinions expressed by Lothian
which Casey [3] will have reported to you.

Felt strongly however that the Soviet attitude of utmost
importance and Cripps [4] has been asked to report whether he has
any reason to suppose that the Soviet Government have contributed
to the new combination by undertaking to cease their support to
China and collaborate with Japan instead. He has also been
authorised to sound the Soviet as to their views on the Far
Eastern situation and the part they see themselves playing in it.

Final appreciation of the position by the United Kingdom
Government is waiting on Cripps' reply.

Pending this, consideration is being given to advisability of
immediate repudiation of Burma Road agreement which Craigie [5]
now advocates instead of awaiting the expiry date of it.

BRUCE