CO537-4802 — Page 41

Ory. on 54900/1/49

54064/1

Extract from Secret Savingram No. 99 from

the Governor Hong Kong to the

Secretary of State for the

Colonies dated 14th June,

1949.

16.

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3.

During the month the influx of Chinese into Hong Kong reached a new pitch as the Communists closed in on Shanghai. The figures week by week showed a large increase, as people poured in by 'plane and ship. The total net increase during the month was over 40,000, but in the last week, after Shanghai had fallen, it dwindled to a net increase of only 2,259. It is believed that many of these refugees, having only moderate means, may return to Shanghai since they find the cost of living in Hong Kong too high for their limited resources. Although the net increase in the population since 30th November last is now just over 110,000, saturation point has not yet been reached. The water supply situation is satisfactory, and food and fuel stocks are adequate.

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