Io. 126(53/72V/39)
AIDE MEMOIRE
26
On the 1st June the Japanese Consul-General at
Canton informed His Majesty's Consul-General that he had
heard on good authority that a Chinese military aeroplane
was leaving an aerodrome on Hongkong territory that night
for Chungking and that three more were due to leave early
the next morning for a similar destination. Mr. Okazaki
stated that Japanese aeroplanes would be waiting to prevent
their flight and would, if necessary, attack any base which
they might be using. His Majesty's Consul-General
immediately pointed out that any attack by Japanese aircraft
within British territory would have the most serious
consequences.
The incorrectness of the information which had
reached Mr. Okazaki was speedily established and he was
informed accordingly. He replied, however, that Japanese
authorities could take no chances, and would pursue Chinese
war aeroplanes over British territory if necessary.
It is hoped that Mr Okazaki's attention will be drawn
to the fact that the pursuit of enemy aircraft over neutral
territory is not allowed in International Law. Consequently,
any combatant aircraft violating the neutrality of Hongkong
is liable to be received with anti-aircraft fire, in which
event His Majesty's Government could take no responsibility
for the consequences.
British Embassy,
Tokyo.
23rd June 1939.