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Елет 85
SECRET
WARNING: This is an unparaphrased version of a secret cypher, or confidential. code message and the text must first be paraphrased* if it is essential to communicate it to persons outside British or Allied Government Services. (*Note: Messages shown as having been sent in a One-Time Pad: "O.T.P." are excepted from this rule.)
2709162/November
From C. in C. Hong Kong
Date. 11.12.45.
Reca. 1210
I.D.C.
IN
17765
15 056/1945
3 (of raise i
Adunally formely')
Addressed Chungking.
Repeated Consul General Canton.
IMMEDIATE
Following for Admiralty for information, personal for General Carton de Wiart, Number 666 from civil Affairs.
1.
Reference proposed handing over of ex Japanese vessels at present temporarily employed under surrender agreement on rehabilitation of colony.
2.
Total involved is 25. Of these 9 are between 120 tons and 680 tons and could be operated on China Coast. Romainder range from 18 to 108 tons.
3.
Majority have been made, ready for sen at considerable cost in repairs. (******* completing
balance
repairs.
4.
These vessels have to date been importing about 8000 tons of essential foodstuffs monthly and their transfer will represent real gesture involving some risk.
5.
Best hope of making up deficiency rests on working River Steamers between Hong Kong and Canton at present immobilised by wines in unswopt Pearl River. It is hoped proposals for necessary sweep to be made shortly will receive very urgent and favourable consideration in Chunjiiing.
6.
I would propose to make ex Japanese vessels available to China about 15th Decomber but before coming to final decision would appreciate your views on making handing over conditional on simultaneous return of British wned small craft and Lighters known to be in vicinity of Canton in use by Chineso. While unsuitable for troop movements the so are invaluable for Hong Kong and will greatly facilitate working of port. Most anxious to recover them and feci return to lawful owners is reasonable ind modest request.
270916Z
1st Lord 1st S.L. (3)
D.F.S.L.
V.C.N.S. A.C. F.S.(0)
sec.
P.A. S. (S) D.S.V.P. (3)
D. of P
3)
D. of P.
M. (3) O.D. (9) D.C.(2) D.N.I.(5) D.C.O.M. (4)
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XXX.
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