7.
you.
Secret
(two with absons,
for retention.
8. bol.
bol. desy
منة
a
Gov.
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lands.)
11.6.38
necessity
of
leased lands
3.p...
(the map refered to
Lane
11.6.38.
in 7
8.4.3
habbey
Cisl a very example at present.
I am inclined to think that the
Governor's despatch on the importance of the
leased territories of Hong Kong somewhat over-
states the case, important though the territories
undoubtedly are.
It may perhaps be most convenient to
deal with the Governor's arguments in the order
in which they come in the despatch and enclosure.
Para. 21 of despatch. It is no doubt
important that an urban area and its immediate
environs should be under a single control, but
I cannot think that it is absolutely essential.
Shanghai is a notable example of a large modern
city where control is divided.
Para. of despatch. It seems to me somewhat
arbitrary to say that the reversion of part of
the harbour area to China would preclude the
possibility of efficient administration, and the
fact that approach to the harbour could only be
made through Chinese waters or by air over
Chinese territory could presumably be met by an
agreement with the Chinese Government.
Para.4 of despatch. The interests of
British trade in the Far East are difficult to
estimate, but it seems to me an over-statement
to say that they are "vitally concerned" with
the continuance of British control in the leased
territory.