22
24 45-
SECRET
MESSAGE
IN
From:
Naval Liaison Officer, Shanghai
Date: 20.4.39
Recd: 1845
INTERDEPARTMENTAL CYPHER
Addressed: C. in C. China repeated Commodore Hong Kong, Admiralty,
Embassy Shanghai, Embassy Tokyo
IMPORTANT
Your 1141 April 19th. I delivered message to
Admiral Nomura today Thursday stressed fact that ship* had been
illegally detained since April 8th and demanded her immediate
release.
2.
Admiral Nomura said he very much regretted delay which
was apparently caused by fact that both Admiral Oikawa and Tokyo
were giving directions to those investigating the case on the spot
and that certain evidence continued to be received concerning the
I pointed out that a very serious view was taken of delay
in releasing ship and its prolonged illegal detention.
case.
3.
Admiral Nomura further stated that Commanding Officer
H.M.S. THRACIAN did not request to board ship to verify flag but
to inspect cargo list. I explained that it was no concern of
Japanese as to what officer did after boarding.
4.
I again demanded instant release of ship and said
I expected very early information that this had been effected.
5.
Admiral Nomura said he would immediately inform
Admiral Oikawa and Tokyo of contents by message.
* SAGRES
1st Lord 1st S.L. 2nd S.L. 3rd S.L. 4th S.L. 5th S. L. EBD. D.C.N.S.
CIVIL LORD SEC. NAVAL SEC. P.A.S.(S) 0.5. (3) D.N.I. (6) M. 36 (12) D. of P. (3)
0.1.C.(3)
Trade Division (2) R.C. (3)
Foreign Office) To be sent War Office Air Ministry
豐酥艷
A.C.N.S. PARL.SEC.
D.S.D.9
by M.Branch
1545/20