7.
by the Chinese, or a Japanese force landing in Chinese
territory. If a surrender were made even of the country
north of the line Taipo Ping Shan, it would involve the
surrender of two first-class main roads, which in the hands
of any attacking force, would greatly facilitate any hostile
advance towards the harbour and, as stated above, would
enable such an enemy to bring heavy artillery within range
of the harbour itself.
It may be added that, quite apart from strategic
questions, the Fanling area towards the north of the New
Territory is the only place where suitable training ground
can be found for troops quartered in the Colony.
I agree with the General in his opinion that from
every point of view, including both strategical and tactical
considerations, it would be a very grave menace to the safety
of the Colony to surrender any part of the New Territory.
12. (c) Naval.
The Navy possess a torpedo workshop and range at
Laichikok in the New Territory. In addition there is a
range finding mast on Taimoshan mountain, and another one
further eastward.
13.
(a) Air.
Government has at considerable expense established
an aerodrome base at Kai Tak in the New Territory, as there
was no suitable site on the island itself. This base will
be used both by Imperial and civil aircraft, and from an
air point of view is a vital necessity.
GENERAL.
14. It is my considered opinion that not only is
Kowloon, but the greater part, if not the whole of the New
Territory, absolutely necessary to Hong Kong, both on
economic and strategical grounds. I have no hesitation in