Cype
IMPORTANT
No.370
INWARD TELEGRAM.
TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES.
COPY FOR
TION
FROM HONG KONG (Bir A. Grantham)
D. 23rd April 1949. R. 23rd
12.45 hrs.
TOP SECRET,
Addressed to S. of S.
Repeated to Ambassador, Nanking, No.6.
(
1.
Communist Controlled Press Agency and newspapers.
The Communist controlled newspapers in this Colony have recently indulged in a series of outspoken attacks on British and American policy (particularly in regard to the Atlantic Pact) which it is becoming increasingly difficult to tolerats. I have therefore been gradually drawn to the conclusion that the time aight shortly come when these organs would have to be closed down, although for obvious reasons I would hesitate to take such action except as a last resort.
2.
In the course of a discussion with Baecutivo Council on the situation presented by recent attacks on British Naval Unite in the Yangtse River, opinion was expressed that this situation presented the right opportunity for action suggested above, although up to the present the local press has carefully avoided objectionable reference to the incident.
3.
Such an important step could not (repeat not) of course be taken if it were to conflict with H.M,G. general policy or embarrass H.M.Ambassador in any negotiations which he may have in view.
4.
Proposed action would necessarily be taken under Emergency Regulatione Ordinance 1922 and in this ocanoction your telegram No.314 bes not (repeat not) been overlooked.
5.
I should mention for your information that the Council Members expressed deep concern and indignation at the recent attacks and confessed to a feeling of BOMO unaettlement as a result of the whole incident.
6.
Grateful for early reply.
Distributed to:-
R.455
Secretary of State
P.S. to Minister of State
Sir T. Lloyd
Mr. Rees Williams
Sip 0, Jeffries
Mr. Poynton Mr. Holding
Foreign Office
HY.
Paskin
Mr.
Sidebothas
Mr.V.I.J.Wallace
Mr. Galsworthy
Mr. Seel
Br. Trafford Smith
4
Mr. Morgan
Sir M.Logan.
Nr. P.D. Coates
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