Report No.1 to London (10/10/45)
Department of Supplies, Fransport and Industry
(Civil Affairs) Hong Lone
56
1 arrived in Hong Kong on the 11th September 1945 and found that the ex-internecs had created an organisation for controlling various commodities, such as foodstuffs and fuel. This organisation consisted of:
Food Controller,
Godown Controller, Dry Foods,
Catering.
Rice,
Perishables,
Fisheries,
Fuel Controller
(Coal and Firewood).
Asst. Fuel Controller
(Oil),
Mr. E. Himsworth Mr. R.A. Wickerson
Mr. A.W. Brown
Mr. D. Nickson
Mr. F.C. Barry
Mr. J.D. Thomson
Dr. G.A.C, Herklots
Mr. T. Ramsay
Mr. J.E. Harrison
The first task was to locate and bring under control certain quantities of foodstuffs, fuel and sundry commodities which had been in the hands of the Japanese. The task was an arduous and extensive one and it will be some time yet before it is completed. Stocks were found in tunnels in the hillsides, in godowns, banks, garages, basements, private houses and other buildings, and at the
It could be time these were being looted by Chinese and others. said that but for the action taken, all the stocks left behind by the Japanese would have disappeared. When located, stocks have been placed under guard, or transported to safe areas or godowns, where the task of counting proceeds. The tunnels have boen parti- cularly difficult, as they are wet and without lighting. Quantities of Oil have been found in the tunnels, and the drums are brought out into the open and the contents ascertained. Separate storage is then provided.
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When they are necessary for immediate requirements, or in cascs here goods will deteriorate or spoil, certain of the se stocks are being consumed.
Catering has presented and still presents a difficult problem. H.M. officers and certain essential workers are being
Stocks for catered for and in some cases are drawing dry rations. this purpose are being provided through service sources, but also by the Perishables and Dry Foods sections. It is expected that October will provide a plentiful supply of sea fish as the Chinese fishing fleet is now at sea. Dr. Herklots expects to leave for London shortly where he will subrit a separate report.
An outstanding problem is the shortage of coal and fire- wood. In the past three weeks the China Light & Power Company has been within a very few hours of shutting off power due to shortage of fuel. The Hong Kong Electric Company Limited has now commenced to operate a reduced service so it is essential to get more coal from somewhere. Communications between normal coal supply areas and Hong Long are difficult.
Repairs to Oil tanks in Hong Kong are being undertaken by the British Navy, but Oil fuel appears to be an easier problem
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