Downing Street
19
26th, February 1946
Sir,
▲ am directed by Mr. Secretary Hall to inform you that it 19 the intention that the present Military Administration in Hong Kong should hand over to a civil administration at as early a date
as possible, and it will be appreciated therefore, that the successful resumption of civil government largely depends on the arrival in Hong Kong at or before that date, of a selected number of experienced Hong Kong civil officers.
20
Mr. Hall realises that difficult and arduous conditions are to be expected in the meriod of reconstruction in Hong Kong and that those officers of the Government who have suffered captivity in the Far East have undergone experiences which would normally entitle them to a long period of relaxation and reunion with their families. In the overriding interests of Hong Kong, however, he has decided that all officers below the age of 50 who are found by the Consulting Physician to be medically fit should be asked to return to Hong Kong at an early date in 1946 for as short a tour of duty as may be found practicable (say 12 18 months), after which they will be allowed to take as long a period of vacation leave as circumstances permit, any balance of accumulated leave not then taken being carried forward to a future occasion. Officers may
rest assured that if, during this short tour of service they feel that they are unable to sustain the strain, full and sympathetic consideration will be given by the local Government to applications from them for further leave.
3. Enquiries have been received as to the prospects of wives and families being able to accompany officers to Hong Kong, or to rejoin them there at an early date. Mr. Hall desires that family reunions should take place in Hong Kong as early as possible, but it will not be possible for wives, with or without children, to accompany their husbands there at present.
As from March 1st. 1946, however, the ban on wives proceeding to Hong Kong will be lifted, and married officers are advised to complete and return the enclosed application for priority passages in the manner indicated in the form. Transport facilities are, however, severely restricted at the moment, and according to the latest information, the conditions prevailing in Hong Kong are such that it is inadvisable for wives to return prematurely to the Colony. There is an extreme shortage of houses as well as of household furniture and equipment; food le scarce and prices high. In addition there is little or no private transport. Officers are therefore advised generally to defer the departure of their wives and children until they have arrived in the Colony and have been able to see the situation for themselves.
4. As you have received a favourable medical report, therefore, I am to ask you to hold yourself in readiness to return to Hong Kong about 30th. March 1946. Instructions regarding your passage will be sent to you shortly and at the same time arrangements will be made for you to be provided with an outfit allowance of £60 and to be supplied with clothing coupons to assist in meeting your tropical needs. A suggested list of kit requirements is enclosed for your guidance.
Your attention is also invited to the accompanying memorandum setting out the action which will be necessary on your part in connection with your departure, and it is suggested that, pending final instructions as to your passage steps should be taken to
nsure that your passport is in order. Alternative forms for this purpose are also enclosed. You are requested to acknowledge the receipt of this letter. A stamped addressed envelope is enclosed for this purpose.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
8. . Nicholls.