CO129-591-11 Emergency unit 1-1-1945 - 31-12-1945 — Page 46

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liberation of Hong Kong we cannot do otherwise than

accept that position. Nevertheless it is important

that we should be able to assume the administration of

this British Colony as soon as military situation allows,

and to obtain agreement that during any initial period

of military administration our Civil Affairs policies

and personnel should be established at the outset.

At present we have no understanding

3.

with Chinese Government (as we have with U.S. Government)

in respect of their acceptance of. British Civil Affairs

policies in any British territory included in their

operational sphere. Most embarrassing situation may

therefore arise in Hong Kong unless there is clear

agreement with Chiang Kai Shek as to our role.

Owing to General Wedemayer's position as

in practice Chief of Staff to Generalissimo this means a positive

agreement with U.S. Government also.

4.

Before we go to Chiang Kai Shek for this

purpose I think it would be most helpful if, subject to

consultation with S. of S. for Foreign Affairs, you would

agree to take present opportunity to raise this with

President/