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13031/4/40.
CYPHER TELEGRAM from the Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Governor of Hong Kong.
Sent 2.15 a.m., 28th June, 1940.
IMMEDIATE
No. 312. SECRET.
My telegram No. 306. His Majesty's
Government have now decided that evacuation scheme should be put into force. As regards numbers I have now seen telegram 7361 from 0.0.0. to War Office which gives me necessary information. Am approaching Ministry of Shipping in order to assist in securing transport.
It should be assumed that destination of white evacuees will be Manila in the first instance and that later British subjects among these will be sent on to Australia as and when shipping is available. U.S.A. Government have been asked whether they will allow evacuation to Manila, at least as a first step, being told that if they approve detailed arrangements will be made between Hong Kong and the local authorities in the Philippines. No answer has yet been received from the U.S.A. Government but His Majesty's Ambassador at Washington is being instructed to repeat United States reply to you as soon as available. You should proceed forthwith with arrangements on assumption that they will agree. Evacuees should not (repeat not) be actually despatched to Manila until you receive assurance that United States Government agree, Other parts of the scheme should be carried out without further authority from me as soon as shipping permits. Authorities in countries of destination should be informed of the sailings and given full particulars, and this information should be repeated to me. Please inform Commander in Chief, China Station and G.0.0. China and consult with latter about use of compulsory powers in the interests of defence.
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