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time the Indian Contingent will be gradually run down and consideration
will be given to the possibility of raising a new contingent drawn
from Chinese other than Cantonese. It is considered that the presence
of at least 300 well-trained Indian Police is for the time being essential
not only to strengthen the Police Force as a whole but also as a safe-
guard in circumstances in which it might not be possible to rely on the
loyalty and effectiveness of the local Cantonese contingent.
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I take this opportunity of reporting that similar
action in respect of the Indian Prison Officers was initiated in
February, 1947, when, with the consent of the Punjab Government, a
European Prisons Officer was despatched to Lahore to organize the
return to Hong Kong of all Indian Prison Officers, none of whom it
is proposed to retire on abolition of office. This action was
necessitated by the proven unreliability of the Cantonese and other
local Prison staff which has been recruited since the re-occupation.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
Mt.
OFFICER ADMINISTERING THE GOVERNMENT.
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