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F

F5 063/1147/10

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[This telegram is of particular secrecy and should be

retained by the authorised recipient and not passed on].

[CYPHER]

CABINET DISTRIBUTION

FROM FOREIGN OFFICE TO CHUNGKING

23:1

11th August, 1945.

D. 11.45 a.n. 11th August, 1945.

No. 859

Repeated to S.E.A.C. No. 329

rrrrrr

LOST TIEDIATE

SECRET

In event of Japanese capitulation in Hong Kong it seems possible that they may release from internment camp Gimson, Colonial Secretary, and other senior officers of Colonial Government and facilitate his assumption of authority which he is in fact empowered to assume under Dormant Commission in absence of substantive Governor.

2. In that event he will need immediate instructions and assurance of support from His Majesty's Government. Please use whatever means you have (e.g. B.A.A.G.) to transmit to him such assurance and at same time convey to him instructions in following sense:-

(a) It is His lajesty's Government's policy to restore British sovereignty and administration immediately, and it is their purpose that for initial period there should be military administration as soon as duly authorised commander of British or Allied military or naval force can reach Colony.

(b) If it is open to you (Gimson) to assume administration of Government under powers which you have in absence of Governor under existing Letters Patent, your duty will be to act accordingly with the full support of His Majesty's Government until such time as Force Commander as stated in (a) arrives with authority to establish military administration. You should communicate by telegraph with Secretary of State for Colonies for confirmation of authority of any British or Allied Officer immediately on arrival of such officer in Hong Kong and in agreement with officer concerned and you should await specific authority from Secretary of State for Colonies before formally handing

over.

0.T.P.

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