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SECRET CIPHER
TEL
SECRET.
From:
Military Attache Tokyo.
Desp.0540 11.12.39. Recd.1210 11.12.39.
То
The War Office Repeated G.0.C. Hong Kong. and G.0.C. Malaya.
F12647
191 Cipher 11/12.
Your 61816 (M.I.2.)
13 DEC 1929
(1) I have this morning had interview with General Staff and made
point indicated in your above mentioned telegram.
Japanese
(2) Instant apology was made for failure to notify us of Ishino's relief and point of quid pro quo was freely discussed
agreeing that position of Japanese officer in Hong Kong in war time
is a matter for us to decide.
(3) No quid pro quo was actually suggested by them and I took initiative in linking question of removal of Ishino's successor with that of return of language officers to Japan, suggesting that return of language officers with grant of diplomatic status would be suitable quid pro quo. This suggestion is under discussion and I
expect early reply.
(4) In any case, apart from matter of diplomatic status I was told that return of language officers would be welcomed and that war
ministry would be prepared to give assurance that no difficulties would be raised about their status as belligerents and that Japanese would undertake to inform us whenever their presence became
embarrassing.
(5) I suggest return of language officers with diplomatic status would be substantial quid pro quo and request your decision as to whether assurance in para 4 above would also be acceptable.
(6) In view of the fact that arrangement is one of many years standing Ambassador is strongly opposed for political reasons to sudden refusal to allow residence of Japanese officer in Hong Kong. C.4.(Telegrams).
To M.I.2. (for action).
Copies to:-
M.0.1.2.2A.
M.1.1.2.20.
M.I.L.
Mr. Howe (F.0.).
Cdr. Barry (Admiralty).
Wing Cdr.Grant(Air Ministry).
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