CO129-571-16 New Territories 13-4-1938 - 12-12-1938 — Page 8

As this raises a question of high policy, I think

you should see the proposed telegram before it issues.

It seems rather a gamble in view of the present posi-

tion of Chiang Kai-shek, but that is more a matter for

the F.0.

H.M.

24.5.38.

Sir H. Moore.

I am doubtful about telegraphing as proposed, and

I should like to discuss with you. I notice that the

Governor regards it as axiomatic that the New Terri-

tories are essentially necessary to Hong Kong both from

a defensive and from an economic point of view. But

is this so? The draft telegram specifically asks

the Governor to explain more fully the essential

economic importance of the New Territories. But what

about the defensive aspect?

Supposing it were held

by the experts that, in the event of attack upon Hong

Kong, the New Territories must be evacuated, how would

Suggestion

that affect the present situation?

24.5.38.

Sir H. beoove

You spoke to

One defence

astect

I have

me

about

of their question,

discussed

it with

CID

Col. Hollis Major Dykes of the Secretariat, and Capt. Edelsten, D.D. Plans,