6.
In each case the delay appears to have been in the handling
of these telegrams after arrival and not in the transmission.
These delays should not have occurred, since all concerned in the
Communications Department know very well the significance of
Deskby markings and in the case of all three telegrams the Deskby times were adequate for transmission.
7.
I am taking steps to ensure that distribution section in
London are reminded of the importance of correct and rapid handling
of Deskby telegrams. Once we have established what went wrong in
Peking and Hong Kong it will be necessary to see how we can prevent
a repetition. One way could be for a reference to the need for
rapid handling of such messages to be included in the standard
instructions on communications which are sent to Posts involved
in Ministerial tours.
8.
I attach a draft reply to Mr Butler.
7. P. Husti
BP Austin
Communications Operations Dept
28 December 1984
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