Page 205
MOST IMMEDIATE.
Page 205
t
für Kosten Кадый
PRE'S MINISTER'S
Дель Entry Tee
IF 5557 LE.
- No......
T.52/45.
PRESIDENT TRUMAN TO PRIME MINISTER.
PERSONAL AND TOP SECRET.
Reference your No. 6.
No. 6. 18.8.45.
From the United States' standpoint there is no objection to the surrender of Hong Kong being accepted by a British officer providing full military co-ordination is effected beforehand by the British with the Generalissimo on operational matters connected with assistance and support through that area to Chinese and American Forces who may still be either engaged against the enemy or involved in securing the surrender of Japanese forces in the hinterland. General MacArthur will (repeat will) be instructed to arrange for the surrender of Hong Kong to the British Commander whenever the above co-ordination is effected.
The Secretary of State informed Tare Victor Soong here this morning of this contemplated action stating that it did not in any way represent United States views regarding the future status of Hong Kong,
DISTRIBUTION
The King
Lord President of
the Council
Foreign Secretary Dominions Secretary Colonial Secretary Sir E. Bridges General Ismay.
FOR INFORMATION
Cabinet.
174
Page 205
Page 205
Page 205Page 206