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completely. Closing of sea frontier might have very aerious effect. So far as land frontier is concerned, this Would be purposeless at this juncture as there has been no (repeat no) influx except by Fail. Heaviest influx by sea is by vessels from north of Hong Kong. Closing of land and see frontier will almost certainly lead to strong reactions on part of Chinese authorities. Any restrictions by us at this stage may result in corresponding restrictions from Chinese Communiste (who are now tending to restore normal communications) thus making return of refugees to China as well as repatriates from Malaya increasingly difficult at a time when we are anxious to restore trade and normalise situation as far as possible.

50 I am well aware of the risks which open door policy involves and I am not (repeat not) neglecting precautions should the Chinese comuniste regime show oper agressive intentions and force full immigration control and closed border upon us. Preliminary precautions already taken Include partial wiring, curfew and registration in border belt and plans for further steps which could be put inte operation at very short notice have been made.

6. I shall report at once if any adverse change alters validity of shore appreciation necessitating further control measures.

Com

Coatés

Min. Afence

(ain

J.C. I. p

Wić

Beij

001

WA

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