CO129-583-19 Administration of government 19-5-1940 - 22-5-1941 — Page 45

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has been urged upon the Secretary of State by the

Naval Commander-in-Chief and the General Officer

Commanding, whose China headquarters in both cases

particular

are at Hong Kong, that Smith's/qualities have not

heen shown to be of a type required in a Governor

in face of the present needs.

The Secretary of State has decided that

he must accept this advice and after consultation

the Secretary of State for Wer

with the Wor-Office and with the approval of the

Prime Minister, Major-General Norton has been chosen

to take over the administration of the Colony. He

can be released at once from his duties in India and

can travel to Fong Yong by air.

Smith will) On

his arrival, then revert to be Colonial Secretary

M'Smith's

and his advice and experience on the civil side will,

Myjn

of course, remain available to General Norton. The

L

will love

letter is being given the temporary rank of

and Commander-in-Chief at Hong Kong.

Manforgamene Norton

while he acts Mantentent. General

Governor

M

Yours sincerely,