THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, AUGUST 30, 1940. 1323
(13) If not, why not?
(14) If the answers to (8) and/or (11) are in the negative, should not Govern- ment have made an early statement accordingly, so that the many con- cerned might make their own arrangements?
(15) Has Government any definite policy in regard to evacuation ?
(16) If so, will Government make a full and frank statement with regard
thereto ?
The Colonial Secretary replied as follows:-
1. As announced in the Press communique issued on 29th June last this
action was taken on instructions from the War Cabinet.
2. The terms of the order were that this should be done as a first step.
3. The answer is in the negative. His Majesty's Government is aware of
the position.
4. Does not arise.
5. The 1939 scheme was drawn up to meet a contingency which has not yet arisen, and it is considered unnecessary to adopt it in present circum- stances. Should the situation alter appropriate steps will be taken.
6. See my reply to question 5.
7. The cost of transport of civilian families will be met from Hong Kong funds. The question of the extent to which maintenance will be provided from the same source is under discussion.
8. Yes, if occasion arises and if suitable arrangements can be made.
9. When occasion arises.
10. See the answer to 13.
11. This cannot be guaranteed but what is possible will be done.
12. When occasion arises.
13. There may be practical difficulties such as lack of shipping or the
difficulty of obtaining admission to other territories.
14. There has never been any reason why persons who so desire should not
make their own arrangements to leave Hong Kong.
15. Yes, but this policy must naturally vary according to circumstances. 16. The answer must be understood in connexion with the reply to question 15. In view of the present world situation it has been considered expedient to remove from the Colony as many as possible of those women and children who are not normally domiciled here, and can most conveniently be established elsewhere. Should the situation unhappily deteriorate further measures may be advisable. If so, the steps already taken will have greatly simplified the problem.
The Honourable Sir HENRY EDWARD POLLOCK, Kt., K.C., LL.D., asked a supple-
mentary question.
His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government replied.
His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government addressed the Council. The Honourable Mr. ANDREW LUSK SHIELDS addressed the Council.
The Honourable Mr. JOHN JOHNSTONE PATERSON asked a question with regard to
the 1939 Evacuation Scheme.
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