Any idea of housing and feeding oxisting refugees free has already been ruled out on the ground of impracticability and expense, Hospital camps up to 3,000, could however be got going in two to three weeks. If housing and food were provided, effect would be to increase influx,
We must therefore discourage any idea that Hong Kong will provide a refuge where they will be cared for. If I.R.O. shows any signs of taking an interest in the matter, I should be grateful if they could be told that any compa they set up must be in Chinese territory. Water supply alone would be quite inadequate for increased population, If large influx starts, my only course would be to close border as soon as possible, with military assistence if neccssary, to protect food and water and neartir or SALBting population and refugees.
Ite
Whilst
Since drafting the above I have received your telegram No. 1193 to which I shell shortly reply. situation in China has unpleasant possibilities for Hong Kong, there is no (repeat no) need for alarm at present,
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