45
has been urged upon the Secretary of State by the
Naval Commander-in-Chief and the General Officer
Commanding, whose China headquarters in both cases
particular
are at Hong Kong, that Smith's/qualities have not
heen shown to be of a type required in a Governor
in face of the present needs.
The Secretary of State has decided that
he must accept this advice and after consultation
the Secretary of State for Wer
with the Wor-Office and with the approval of the
Prime Minister, Major-General Norton has been chosen
to take over the administration of the Colony. He
can be released at once from his duties in India and
can travel to Fong Yong by air.
Smith will) On
his arrival, then revert to be Colonial Secretary
M'Smith's
and his advice and experience on the civil side will,
Myjn
of course, remain available to General Norton. The
L
will love
letter is being given the temporary rank of
and Commander-in-Chief at Hong Kong.
Manforgamene Norton
while he acts Mantentent. General
Governor
M
Yours sincerely,