CO_968_257_COMMUNIST_ACTIVITIES_IN_HONG_KONG_1952 — Page 42

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FROM PEKING TO FOREIGN OFFICE

[This telegram is of particular secrecy and should be retained by the authorised recipient and not passed on].

Cypher/OTP

Mr. Lamb

No. 161

1st March, 1952.

SECRET

March.

DEPARTMENTAL DISTRIBUTION

D. 7.40 a.m. 2nd March, 1952. R. 8.23 a.m. 2nd March, 1952.

Addressed to Foreign Office Telegram No. 161 of 1st

Repeated for imformation to Hong Kong.

I have heard, on the B.B.C. Wireless at 7 p.m., the news of the riots at Hong Kong.

2. This must inevitably have violent propaganda reactions in China. I therefore seriously considered the advisibility of cancelling my departure tonight for Shanghai. I came to the conclusion that to cancel my journey at the 11th hour and moreover for the third time, would only attract undesirable attention and create speculation amongst the Chinese authorities. In the circumstances there seemed to be no alternative but to adhere to the original programme and leave by the evening train. In making this decision I

was also influenced by the consideration of the adverse effect on the morale of the British community at Shanghai if I delayed the visit again.

3. I would, of course, return at once to Peking if developments appeared to make this necessary.

DISTRIBUTED TO

China and Korea Department Personnel Department.

CCCCC

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