FO371-23517 — Page 40

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From: G.O. C. Hong Kong.

То

-:

The War Office.

6104 Cipher 4/12.

SECRET.

DHER

332

Desp.2014 4/12/39. Recd.1555 4/12/39.

My 6059 30/11.

Have you had any formal notification of proposed relief of Ishino by Suzuki. From point of view of local defence it is questionable whether Suzuki will be able to find out anything which Japanese do not already know, but anomaly of Japanese officer being allowed to reside in this fortress in time of

war is a matter of policy on which I would like instructions. The matter is aggravated by presence of Japanese on border by fact that Ishino's bureau is intelligence bureau for South China and not only Hong Kong, and that return of Suzuki who has already done one tour here constitutes tacit admission on both sides that his duties are intelligence and not linguistic.

If continued residence of Japanese officer is to be allowed consider relief of Ishino will provide an opportunity to make permission a very special favour and to demand a substantual quid pro quo.

C. 4. (Telegrams)

Copies to: M.0.1. 2. 23.

M.I.2. 2c

Mr. Howe (F.0.)

Commander Barry (Admiralty)

Wing Commander Grant (Air Ministry)

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