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even a really quite small token contribution would be followed by substantial local voluntary subscriptions from the Chinese who would be quite unready to make this gesture if H.M. G. do not go beyond the payment out of C.D. & W. funds. I should like this point to be considered further as if the Treasury can be persuaded that, on balance, it might be a very good bargain for the Hong Kong Government and, through them, for H.M. G., they may be induced to accept it.
I am suggesting to Mr. Ivor Thomas that he might like some time to have a talk with Dr.Sloss.
25.9.47.