SUPY
47
Report on the work undertaken by Dr. P.S. Selwyn-Clarke following the occupation of Hong Kong by the Japanese
in December, 1941.
On the 25th December, 1941, I was serving as Accountant in the Medical Department and automatically became general factotum to Dr. Selwyn-Clarke when this Colony fell into the hands of the Japanese. In this capacity I assisted him until his arrest on 2nd May, 1943, and my own internment in Stanley Camp on 7th May, 1943, and because of this close contact I feel it encumbent on me to report on his humanitarian and courageous efforts to help those in such great need.
No effort will be made in this report to detail the many and trying duties undertaken by Dr. Selwyn-Clarke during the period of actual hostilities as his work during that period is already known to so many others better able to record his untiring services to a community living in the state of siege.
His work in town having covered so many spheres, it is necessary to split this report into several sections, commencing with his work immediately following the cessation of hostilities.
A.
IMMEDIATE STEPS FOLLOWING OCCUPATION BY JAPANESE.
There is no doubt that Dr. Selwyn-Clarke's most immediate concern was for the general health of the community, and although at this time my main duties were still connected with accounts, I do know that he was considerably worried about the shut down of both the water supply and the Health Department.
Following many visits to Japanese officials he was able, after a few days to obtain permission for a continuance of all health duties and for the water supply to be resumed. In addition, he obtained approval for a continued supply of food to hospitals for the patients, refugees and staff. He also received permission to use his car and with it was able to make personal visits to all hospitals in order to deal with the innumerable difficulties being encountered in those institutions.
Another problem was that of the supply of bread and this he overcame by obtaining leave for four European registered bakers to continue baking supplies for those in need, a service which continued in operation until the bakers were interned on 7th May, 1943.
B.
STAFF.
The question of staff was yet another of the obstacles surrounding Dr. Selwyn-Clarke, and this he overcame in the early stages by persuading the Japanese to agree to exemption from internment being granted to most members of the Health Department and certain other members of the Medical Department. All concerned were furnished with special arm bands and, although certain restrictions were imposed, most of the staff were able to move freely in the city itself. In addition to this staffcertain British and American truck drivers, previously attached temporarily to the Medical Department, were allowed to continue their duties under his direction. These men rendered very valuable services both during the hostilities and after Japanese occupation.
Following/