A letter has been sent to the Ministry of Defence, expressing serious concern at the defence picture as we see it, and the Chiefs-of-Staff have now telegraphed to the Chiefs-of-Staff, Far East, for an urgent appreciation. The whole question of the possible repercussions on Hong Kong of the existing situation in China and its possible developments is at present under close study here in conjunction with the Governor of Hong Kong, the Foreign Office and the Chiefs of Staff with a view to everything possible being done to put Hong Kong into a state of readiness to meet eventualities, and the position has also recently been considered in relation to Hong Kong and 'Malaya generally at Mr. Malcolm Macdonald's conference at Singapore.
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A copy of a note which has been sent recently to the Foreign Office estimating the possible repercussions in Hong Kong, on the basis requested by the Foreign Office (see attachment to that note), is also annexed for information. It has been explained, in sending this note to the Foreign Office, that it may require modification in the light of further information from the Governor, but that it is a preliminary expression of views asked for Infticipation of a firm
assessment which will follow.
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