CO129-585-2 Sino-Japanese conflict- release of captured British ships 6-3-1940 - 2-10-1940 — Page 36

Economic & Overseas

E. & 0. 1551/40

36

4th April, 1940.

Confidential.

sir,

With reference to your letter No. F.1504/173/10 of the 6th March last, regarding the possible release by the Japanese Government of the British ships *Sagres" and "Lalita" directed by the Secretary of State for India to enclose herewith

I am a copy of a telegram from the Government of India transmitting the views of the Dholera Steamship Company on the offer of the Japanese Government reported by His Majesty's Ambassador at Tokyo in his telegram No. 332 of the 21st February.

It will

be seen that the Company are prepared to accept the offer, provided that the Japanese Government release not only the "Lalita" but also the Company's steamer "Dholera". Zetland has no information regarding the capture by the

Lord Japanese of the latter vessel.

I am to request that the Government of India's telegram may be transmitted to Sir Robert Craigie as soon as possible in order that the views of the Company may be communicated to the Japanese Govern ent.

Copy of this letter and its enclosure is being sent to the Colonial office, Adhiralty and Ministry of Shipping.

I am, Sir,

Your obedient Servant,

The Under-Secretary of State,

Foreign Office,

9.7.1.

Secretary,

Economic and Overseas Department.