FO371-46256 — Page 64

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SECRET

WARNING: This is an unparaphrased version of a secret cypher or confidential code message and the text must first be paraphrased* if it is essential to communicate it to persons outside British or Allied Government Services. (*Note: Messages shown as having been sent in a One-Time Pad: "O.T.P." are excepted from this rule.)

From: C. in C. Hong Kong

7571

1945

221224/September

Date: 24/9/45.

Recă: 0927

C.C.M. (NAVAL F.0.C.)

IN

To: War Office

For Civil Affairs and Colonial Office.

(1) It is urgently necessary to secure the largest supply of fish possible in view of the scarcity of rice, vegetables and other commodities essential to normal diet,

(2) Investigation shows that fishing fleets based on Hong Kong have suffered severely during the Japanese occupation and have been unable to put to sea on any scale since Japan's collapse. More than half of the large and medium junks previously registered in Hong Kong have been destroyed.

(3)

In view of the immediate urgency of the food position I have made an advance in anticipation of approval of 150000 dollars to local fisheries. 100000 dollars of this is in the form of small loans of four dollars per head to fishing junk masters on security of junk. Major portion of loan probably recoverable. The balanco of 50000 dollars held by Herklots to finance wholesale marketing.

(4) Advances being made under supervision of Herklots to date 33000 dollars has been so advanced.

(5) Fishing fleet started going to sea yesterday as a result.

(6)

Admiralty pass War Office.

N.A. to D.F.S.L.

Secretary

P.A.S. (L)

JB.

(65)

D. of P. (Q) (3)

M. (16) and for War Office

and Colonial Office.

221224

ela

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