CO129-570-8 Sino-Japanese War- sinking of Chinese fishing boats by Japanese vessel 31-1-1938 - 22-12-1938 — Page 3

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9.3.38

2.3.38

Desires instructions as to reply to question se non-publication of report

The report referred to in the telegram is

that of the sinking of some eleven Chinese fishing

junks last September by a Japanese submarine. The

report was made by a local Commission appointed by

the Governor, and was sent home for consideration by

H.M.G. The evidence submitted to the Commission was

fully reported in the Hong Kong Press and partly

reported in this country. The report of the

Commission and its conclusions have not yet been

made public as it is under discussion with the

Japanese Government, and we are endeavouring to secure

"satisfaction".

I have discussed with Mr. Gent, and the file

has been held up until we could find out what reply the

F.0., to whom a copy of this telegram has been sent,

would wisn to nave made, as the matter is at the

moment mainly their concern. I understand from

Mr. Heppel (F.0) that they have agreed to the reply.

originally suggested by Mr. Gent, to the effect that

the

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the report is under consideration and that no decision

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has yet been taken as to publication. It may be

somewhat awkward for the Governor to nave to make

such a reply, but clearly he is not in a position

to say very much, and in the circumstances that is

perhaps all that he can say.

I submit draft reply for conson. which should

be read to the F.0. for concurrence before it is sent.

P. Rogers

5.111.38

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