FO371-46254 — Page 205

Page 205

Page 205

Page 205

MEG,

4.

--2-

H.M. Government who are anxious to arrive at a mutually satisfactory arrangement made a further approach to the Generalissimo on the 28th August. It was again pointed out that H.M. Government was unable to agree that Generalissimo's claim to delegate power to accept surrender is in accordance with Allied arrangements. It was hoped that he would decide to waive his claim by unilateral action in favour of the Commander of the British force.

5.

In reply H.M.Ambassador Chungking reports that Generalissimo had already informed President Truman of his delegation of authority to British Force Commander and that he will certainly not agree now to waive his authority. Ho suggests that the next best thing would be to loavo the matter alono and go ahead with surrender arrangements as planned, In the short timo available we are unlikely to got anything from further discussion except increasing bitterness,

6.

Discussions between Foreign Office and Chungking are still proceeding and you will be informed of further developments. But from the above information you will soo that our relationship with Chungking is delicate, and that it will be necessary to show every consideration to the authorised ropresentatives of the Chinese Government who may reach Hong Kong.

7.

You should sign no documents without further instructions.

8.

Gimson may be of great assistanco and should be abown this tolegram,

9.

4.19698 from Buateric just recoiveã is now under

consideration.

First Sea Lord (20)

311334A

LOO

LAURA

Secretary to 1st Sea Lord.

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