CO129-553-3 Anti-piracy measures 7-3-1935 - 4-11-1935 — Page 99

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to his avoiding any action which would endanger the lives of

the Europeans on board. Whether a threat to torture or kill all Europeans if attacked would be carried out is not known; it is certain that such a threat would be made, and in the light of this it appears that a Commanding Officer has no option but to hold his hand.

6. This very difficult (and very ignominous) situation does not arise, however, until the pirates have captured the ship

lp, or the first class accommodation at least; and it is submitted there fore that the first and only real precaution against piracy must, as stated in your No.494/1034 of 28th March, 1935, report on the "Tungchow" piracy be the proper protection

phrofficers! of the ship internally so that the officers' quarters are shut off from the rest of the ship, and a resolute defence by the officers and guards. I very much hope that, in view of this expression of your opinion, these will be carried into effect. Once it is known that a ship is properly protected and that the officers and guards will fight, the very difficult problem with which Commanding Officers may be faced at present will automatically vanish, since they will know when they receive an alarm that the Europeans onboard are safe and praying for the arrival of a ship of war instead of fearing its arrival ag now), and that all that is required of the patrol vessel is a quick arrival on the scene; in other words action instead of forced inaction. If approved, it would be proposed to inform shipping companies accordingly.

(Sgd.)F.ELLIOTT.

Commodore.