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be renewed as soon as possible. Internees have suffered from dy. try, beri-beri, and other deficiency diseases. They have los an average of 20 to 30 pounds in weight, and felt a general loss of vitality. Physical work can be indulged in for short periods only. Prolonged internment under present conditions is bound to lead to serious results although to date the camp has been fortunate particularly in weather conditions. Another winter will undoubtedly show more serious reactions.
Under the circumstances, I consider repatriation an urgent necessity, at least for the women, children, and old men. Failing that, relief in the form of medical supplies, supplementary foodstuffs and vitamins should be despatched to Hongkong at once,
Ir general repatriation is ordered, I should like definite instructions to leave, otherwise I shall feel it my duty to remain behind so as to be on the spot after the war.
Repatriation will be difficult to carry out, as many internees will refuse to leave, preferring to remain, so as to take over their business concerns immediately the war is över. Many members of the Hongkong banking and commercial community are inclined to place their own selfish interests ahead of Empire considerations. Unfortunately, most of the Government employees have been imbued with the same ideas. However, I am endeavouring to line up a number of men loyal to the best interests of the Empire, as a nucleus to start reconstruction as soon as the war is over, If this group remains in Stanley, it will need immediate assistance after the war, if possible from the air, as there will be many armed Chinese at large in Hongkong. I should also like to urge that as soon as possible after the war some capable men with a correct idea of the new British Imperial policy be sent to Hongkong to assist in the rehabilitation which will be necessary. It is imperative that a return to the old selfish commercial control of Hongkong be avoided. The ultimate fate of Hongkong is bound up in broader questions, but British controlat least for a period of years would save face. nd probably meet with the approval of the Chinese Government.
Internees are concerned about their families in Australia, England, and elsewhere. Their morale would be improved if B.B.C. could broadcast assurances that their families are being looked after.
No contacts are allowed between the civilian internees and the prisoners of war. However, reports are received from time to time concerning conditions existing in these camps. Camps for the prisoners of war are located at Argyle street, adjoining the Kowloon Hospital, at the Military Barracks at Shamshuipo on the Mainland, and the Canadians at North Point, on Hongkong Island. All are quartered in hutments. Below I give & summary of a report on conditions in the Argyle Street prison camp, and St. Theresa Hospital :-
Argyle Street prisoners of war camp was opened on December 22nd when 900 prisoners were placed therc, although the capacity of the building was meant for 300. Of these 900, 300 were European troops, and 500 Indians. No blankets or bede were issued, although the Kowloon Hospital, which was quite handy, had sufficient of these commodities in storage to take care of the whole 900. No medical stores were available, only 6 tablets of 1/12 gr. of Morphine were to be had. This together with the intense cold and lack of clothing was extremely hard on the wounded, and led to unnecessary deaths. Dysentry soon became rife, due to the unsanitary habits of the Indians, and in one week 800 were suffering from this complaint, and it was not until the two types were segregated that it was brought under control. Knives, forks, spoons and slippers were not issued, though they were available in adequate numbers, as the Japanese authorities considered them
luxuries.