SECRET
H.M.S. "KENT" at Hong Kong.
4th December, 1934.
28
No.02512.
Your Excellency,
I have the honour to forward for Your Excellency's secret information the attached copy of correspondence regarding the movements of H.I.J.M.S. "SAGA" in the vicinity of Hong Kong.
2.
The activities of this vessel give rise to strong suspicion that she is engaged in espionage. Up to the present, however, it would not appear that the "SAGA" has actually contravened the laws of the Colony, and if any protest were made, it would have to be based on the Commanding Officer's lack of courtesy in not keeping the British authorities fully informed as to his movements within British territorial waters.
3. I do not wish to take the step of protesting to the Japanese authorities at present, as I am particularly anxious to promote good relations with the Japanese and have for some time past been endeavouring to arrange visits by our men of war to a number of Japanese naval ports from which H.M.Ships have of recent years been excluded. I feel that any protest about the "SAGA", so long as her actions are not actually illegal, would prejudice our chances of success in the above direction.
4. I would, however, suggest for Your Excellency's consideration that the necessary legislation might be drafted so that should a change in the situation at any time render it desirable, an Ordinance could be passed without delay, and appropriate Police kegulations issued, to compel foreign warships to anchor only within the Harbour limits, except in emergency, and to give full advance information of their proposed movements within British territorial waters in the Colony of Hong Kong, which should be subject to Your Excellency's concurrence.
5. I should be very glad if I might be favoured with Your Excellency's observations on this matter.
A copy of this correspondence is being forwarded to the Admiralty.
I have the honour to be,
Your Excellency's abedient servant,
(sgd.) FRED C. DREYER
ADMIRAL.
His Excellency
The Governor of Hong Kong. (Copies to:- The Secretary of the
Admiralty (No.1981/02512)
The Commodore, Hong Kong.)
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