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luxuries. Operations were carried out without any type of
ant thetic, and under difficulties of a type which could easily have been avoided by a little co-operation from the authorities, as Hongkong was full of all kinds of drugs, medicines, and surgical equipment.
When the officers were removed to Shamshuipo in late
February, they received a small weekly allowance, and with this money they started a canteen for the men in Argyle Street, but this was discontinued early in March, after two men had escaped, as punishment, and was not reopened up to the end of June. No contact with the outside was allowed, and a regular morning cheak was taken outside in all weathers, lasting anywhere from a half to one hour. to attend, except bedridden cases.
All had
St. Therese Hospital. Conditions here were very bad, only the actual dry rations were issued, and many men who were in other camps who should have had hospital attention, were advised against it, due to the poor food. Malnutrition, beri-beri, palagra, and scmvey, were rife in all the cemps, and treatment was impossible, issue of all necessities in any form were unobtainable, and led to a great falling off in health of all the men.
Indian prisoners of war have been badly treated, and they are being pressed to join the Japanese. On the whole, they have been remarkably loyal. A report from a very reliable source, which reached Stanley camp, stated that after a propaganda talk, the Japanese asked all the pro-Japanese Indians to form up at a certain point. When only a very few responded, the Japanese bayonetted three of those who did not responë.
I have the honour to be,
sir,
Your obedient Servant,
(F.C. Gimson)
Colonial Secretary,
Hong Kong.
per
}
(P.V. MaLane)
Canadian Government Trade Commissioner, Hong Kong.