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149
OOPY FOR REGIST
ATIC
CYPHER TELEGRAM from the Officer Administering the
Government of Hong Kong to the Secretary of State for
the Colonies.
Dated 2nd October,1937 . Received 1.45 p.m., 2nd October.
IMMEDIATE.
No.217.
Addressed to Canton Telegram No.8 of 2nd
October, repeated to the secretary of State for the
Colonies, Commander in Chief, Nanking,
Shipping. firms Combine Hong Kong state that Canton Government (?promised) no suspension of navigation without twenty four hours notice. Late on Thursday 30th September they were notified that navigation would be sus-. pended as from 6.0 a.m., Friday morning, Night navigation being prohibited this action has impounded at least seven large British ships besides numerous river boats all engaged in trade now vital to China.
Suspension is
reported to be on the instructions of Fourth Route Army Commander but my ow (3 corrupt groups) by even a responsible
authority at Canton and I would urge strongest possible
be
steps taken to effect its cancellation. I it is found that there are physical obstructions to navigation you will no doubt take what further steps you consider appropriate but my present request is only for cancellation or suspension of the order and instructions from Canton that this will be respected down the river. I am repeating this to Nanking but it is difficult to believe that the Central Government has approved this stoppage of munitions and other supplies.