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point out that we are unable to agree that his claim to delegate power to accept Burender is in accordance with Allied arrangements. Supreme Commander, General MacArthur, haa received instructionse from the United States Chiefs of Staff to arrange for the surrender of Hong Kong to a British Commander to be nominated by Admiral Prasor, subject only to the completion of military co-ordination between the Generalissimo and ourselves on operational matters in connexion with facilities which we have undertaken to grant through the Hong Kong arse for the assistance of the Chinese and American Zopces in China.
(b) Je would nevertheless like to settle this question in com-lete agreement with Chiang Kai chek, since we attach the greatest importenos to our good relations with China,
(c) We hope therefore that be will not press his claim to` delegate his authority in this matter. It is fully within his power to paire it by unilateral action in favour of the Commander of the British Poroe. We sincerely hope that he will decide to take this course, in which event we on our side would take an early opportunity to make an appreotetive public reference to his sotion.
12 Chiang Kai Shek ozmos be persuaded to act na suggested in pamgraph 5 above, Hto Majesty's United Kingdon Ambassador has been authorised to suggest fellowing compromise:-
(a) Admirel fercourt (he British Officer in Command of the British Force) on behalf of His Majesty's Government in United Kingdom should accept surrender jointly with a British officer (preferably General Hayes) noting on behalf of Chiang Kai Shek,
(b) Any other Allied representatives present would then sign 68 vitnes808,
Copy to:-
Cabinet Offices
Pozsign Office
Colmial Off100
I. Q
Sir E. Bridges. General Jacob, Mr. V.V. MoVittie. P.8. to S. of S. 9. Sir A. Cadogan. Stz B. Nevton.
Mr. C.B.B. Heathcote-Smith. Mr. J.C. Sterndale-Bennett. Mr. G.B.J. Gent.
P.8. to 3. of.9.
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