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power and light) to enable through trains to run between Canton and Hong Kong. A third of our entire stock of asphalt has been shipped at your request to Canton. I have taken the initiative in arranging to secure coal in British ships, on a sharing basis, for the joint benefit of Canton, Shanghai and Hongkong, though we ourselves could use all and more of the coal which these ships will carry. I have offered Canton aviation petrol if suitable transport can be provided. And I hope and trust that you will not hesitate in the future to inform me of any steps I can take to aid you in the discharge of the onerous duties and responsibilities which your Government has laid upon you.
6.
I have no reason to believe that the present restriction on entry, dictated as it is by an emergency situation, will be other than temporary. As soon as food supplies are assured, my intention is to recommend lifting all restrictions on the entry of Chinese into Hong Kong (though passports will continue to be required in respect of other nationalities). In the meantime, if the operation of the present temporary but necessary restrictions is giving rise to anomalies in Canton, could we not through duly appointed officers discuss how these may be met and overcome in this interim period?
7.
I am sure that such a discussion would lead to a solution mutually agreeable to both of us and, if you so desire, I would be happy to designate a senior officer of my staff to meet your representative either here or in Canton, whichever is more convenient. I know you will agree with me that any difficulties there may be should be met frankly and as soon as possible.
8.
I feel that the traditional friendship between Hong Kong and Canton, strengthened by the sufferings and trials of war, will flourish in peace with increasing strength to the mutual advantage of both if our resolve is firm to maintain now the sympathy and the faith which enabled our countries fighting as allies to win history's greatest victory.
CECIL HARCOURT
Commander-in-Chief
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