CO537-2190 — Page 25

2

If a state-

protection will be provided. I do not, repeat not, think it. advisable at this stage to issue any countorblast in the pres8 since this might merely exacerbate the controversy. ment is to be issued

through my Public Relations Officer, it sahll be confined to stating that' the measures taken are normal administrative measures on grounds of public health and danger of fire.

5.

I may add that there are a considerable number of wooden huts which have been erected in many places in Kowloon which are equally undesirable from the point of view of publio health eto, The policy of the Public Works Department however is first of all to clear those erected on Crown Land, roadways, eto, It is not a question of discriminating against the squatters in Kowloon City. In view however of the rapid increase in the number of huts there, which has doubled in the last two months, I am not, repeat not, in favour of delaying action.

6.

#

I have shown the draft of this telegram to the Ambassador who is in Hong Kong.

proposed,

He concurs in the action

A, 2A

D. C, 14, 20, 21, 23. 9/3361/4650

Note:

Confirmatory copy of this telegram to go to the Secretary of State by air mail

CEIVE

19 DEC 1947

C. O. REGY

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