...)
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1. 2. 3. and 4. of Appendix should be printed by the local Government printers to save the long delay caused by printing them in London.
15.
The actual conduct of the defence is likely to be hopelessly crippled by a division of authority. The Naval Commander-in-Chief is supreme at sea and the opening or closing of the harbour will be managed under his orders.
On the other hand, there is no one supreme on land. It will be seen by reading the Proclamation issued by the Colonial Secretary that the Governor himself proposes to take in hand certain measures, such as signals of the arrival and departure of hostile forces, the enlistment of volunteers etc., while at the same time he declines to be responsible for the provision of coolies, and dissents from the military recommendation as regards the safety of the women and children.
The dockyard and magazines are all important. They are imperial property, and surely the Home Government should be satisfied that full provision is made for the safety of its property.
I am therefore of opinion that in the event of hostilities, the General Officer Commanding should be supreme in the Colony, that the Governor and Council should carry on the routine work and that if possible the trade should not be interfered with, but that the General Officer Commanding should have power by Commission immediately on the outbreak of hostilities to direct what measures should be taken for defence, e.g.,
deporting of foreigners.
deporting of Chinese.
provision of coolies.
women and children.
policing of fortifications.
11-584 seizure