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726.6
This has now been discussed with Sir Geoffry Northcote whose views are that the celebrations should be postponed until after the conclusion of the war. It would, in his opinion, be clearly unpatriotic to insist on preference being given to the casting of the statue over contracts in hand for the Ministry of Supply, and there is the further point that there would be some risk that the statue, if completed, would be lost at sea en route for Hong Kong and would, of course be irreplaceable. Moreover, while the war lasts it will be impossible to have the firework display which is an indispensable part of any celebration in China, and the general situation in the Far East does not look very propitious for holding the proposed celebrations.
The issue of stamps which it was proposed to make to celebrate the centenary is under active preparation, and the stamps bear the date 1841-1941. It is for consideration whether, if it is decided to postpone the main celebrations, the issue of stamps should still be made. We had originally intended that the issue should form part of the general celebration. It may, however, be thought that the objections to holding public celebrations at the present moment do not apply to an issue of stamps. There is a slight and not very strong analogy in the present position at the moment in this country where an issue is on sale celebrating the centenary of the introduction of the penny postage. (If it is decided not to issue these stamps in Hong Kong the Crown Agents, who are at the moment preparing the issue, should be warned that the stamps when printed can be sent out to Hong Kong but should not be issued for sale to collectors in this country) Draft telegram herewith.
части
Wishilumm.
17.7.40.
with the diff bel.
all
77/7
17
1b 2 To H.K.
tel. 376 Lewet.
bons.
18/7/40
3 To C.A (w/ 2.) (147)
22·7·40
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