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From: G.0.C. Hong Kong.
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SECRET.
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Desp.1548 15.12.39. Recd.1000 15.12.39.
Repeated Commander Shanghai Area, Shanghai.
6195 Cipher 15/12.
Your 61739 (M.0.2.) 0/12.
16/12
Part 1. Gist of instructions issued to Peking and Tientsin as
follows:- Primarily object of garrisons was defence against Chinese,
same degree of resistance impracticable against Japan. Role (a)
Tientsin protection British Consulate and British lives and property
within concession acting with civil forces.
(b) Peking protection British Embassy in co-operation with
other contingents of international force.
Part 2. The fundamental principe as in Shanghai is to
Opposition to any Japanese claim to enter
avoid armed conflict.
In
British concession at Tientsin or British Embassy at Peking must not
be carried to a point where armed conflict is likely to result.
last resort the Japanese should be permitted entry subject to strong
protest and notification matter is being referred home for instructions.
In the event of war with Japan if prior evacuation not possible
British troops will not resist Japanese entry but will allow themselves
to be interned.
Copies of instructions to Shanghai Tientsin and Peking are
being sent by long sea route.
C.4.(Telegrams).
Copies to:- S. of S.
C.I.G.S.
P.U.S.
To H.0.2. (for action).
D.C.I.G.S.
D.M.O. & P. D.P.
D.D.M.O. M.0.1.2.2A.
D.M.I.
D.D.M.I.(I).(0).
M.I.2.20.
First Lord of the Admiralty Mr. Howe (F.0.).
Cdr.Barry (Admiralty).
Wing Cdr.Grant (Air Ministry).
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