CO129-591-16 Liberation of Hong Kong- arrangements in the event of the collapse of Japan 3-8-1945 - 1-8-1950 — Page 92

до

imminent, with the object of reaching the Colony and

establishing British control with the least possible

interval after the capitulation becanes effective.

The senior or other suitable officer should be

equipped with the necessary commission to assu me

governing powers.

If this is agreed, arrangements should be made,

if possible, for the nucleus of a British Civil Affairs

Unit to be suitably placed to accompany such a force.

The nucleus of such a unit already exists in the form of

a (civilian) Hong Kong Planning Unit, working in the

Colonial Office. This Unit is about to be militarised.

If you agree, I should be grateful if you

would give instructions for the matter to be considered

by the Service Authorities in association with the

Colonial Office.

As you will remember, His Majesty's Government

has stated in Parliament its purpose to resume British

authority and administration in Hong Kong.

4

ALCORD

OFFICE

69

(Sgd.) G.H.HALL.

10th August, 1945

1