FO371-23514 — Page 87

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SECRET CIPHER

SECRE T.

From:

G.O.C. Hong Kong.

То

The War Office repeated

Intelligence Shanghai C.-in-C.

and British Ambassador, Shanghai.

IMMEDIATE.

5390 Cipher 21/8.

275

Desp.1933 21.8.39. Recd.1515 21.8.39.

Japanese have now screen of troops along whole of our

frontier. Attitude of local commanders correct and they proclaim

their anxiety to avoid incidents. Japanese troops ifentified as

forming part of normal Canton garrison. You will appreciate that recent Japanese activities have made surprise operations against

Information slow and more difficult Hong Kong considerably easier.

A

to obtain. I have received no official information as to

probability of war with Japan. We are not prepared for surprise

attack and in my opinion we should put our house in order.

demonstration that we are determined to resist and are prepared

Action proposed against any emergency is desirable and justified. generally as follows. Strengthening of frontier road bridges calling up all males for evening training under conscription bill for partial manning of coast defences commence work on digging island

field defences establish certain naval defences women and children

to be encouraged to leave. Least possible inconvenience to be caused to normal life of Colony. Grateful for early instructions

whether I am to proceed on these lines. Am strongly of opinion that clear indication our preparedness may have good effect

generally. Governor has seen and agrees.

To M.0.2. (for action).

Mr. Howe (F.0.).

Cdr.Loly (Admiralty). Sqdn.Ldr.Pelly (Air Ministry,

C.4.(Telegrams),

Copies to:-

S. of S.

D.S.D.

U.S. of S.

D.T.0.

C.I.G.S.

D.R.O.

P

.U.S.

D.P.S.

D.M.O. & I.

D.M.Q.

D.D.M.O.

D.S.T.

D.D.M.I.

D.F.W.

M.0.1A. 2. 2A.

D.U.S.

M.I.2. 20.

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