CO129-611-2 Liaison with British Embassy and consulates in China- appointment of political advisor 1-9-1945 - 20-10-1947 — Page 96

CYPHER/OTP

19

93

DEPARTMENT..L NO. 1.

FROM NANKING TO FOREIGN OFFICE

Sir R. Stevenson.

No. 169.

18th February, 1947.

D: 7.00 p.m. 18th February, 1947.

R: 3.25 p.m.18th February, 1947.

@to @@@ @@@

Enal ts

25 (25)

Your telegram No. 129.

30

2.

I agree with paragraphs 1 and 2.

With reference to paragraphs 3 and 4 while I share the views regarding the importance of the Hong Kong appoint- ment I would be extremely reluctant to close Ürunchi even temporarily in view of its increasing importance as our only effective listening post on this otherwise inaccessible but vital frontier of China. I would therefore strongly advocate the retention of this post which we had con- siderable difficulty in establishing and that the arrange- ment to send Maclchose to take charge while Graham is on leave may not (repeat not) be cancelled. I should add

that Sinkiang Governor recently expressed to me benevolent [sic] interest in British Consular representation in Urumchi which he even suggested should be of Consul General status

3. I agree that Heathcote Smith would be more suitable than Maclchose for Hong Kong post, the importance of which is likely to increase. At the same time I feel we should not sacrifice Urumchi and that pending availability of Heathcote Smith or other suitable candida to (who I agree would first require briefing at His Majesty's Embassy) we should try to establish closer liaison with Hong Kong by sending senior members of His Majesty's Embassy there whenever such visits appear desirable.