FO371-46258 — Page 168

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SECRET CYPHER TELEGRAM

Ass! ZE

WARNING This message must be thoroughly paraphrased if its text is to be published or communicated outside British or American Services or Departments. If re-transmitted unparaphrased other than through the Cabinet Office, the originator must mark the message

"to be sent in One-Time Pad."

15-

Suter

IZ 10544.

TOO 1160800Z

IMPORTANT.

TOR 171930Z

From: C. in C. Hong Kong.

To:

Ambassador Chunking

Info Cabinet Offices, SACSEA.

F10368

1945

X C.C.M.

*

16th November, 1945 1-9867/1147/10

Further to my DTG 0902362 November,

Sunderland aircraft was released from Hainan on the 13th November and has now returned Hongkong. Captain of aircraft confirms that landing was made owing to adverse winds and consequent shortage of fuel. Chinese Authorities re- fuelled, placed an armed guard, including Japanese soldiers, on the aircraft. Passengers. were taken ashore and treated firmly but with consideration. An American flying boat landed during this period and took off without restraint.

2. It is appreciated that orders issued by the Generalissimo on the 8th November for release of the aircraft were not complied with by the local Chinese Authorities at Samar.

3. With shortening of daylight hours, seasonal strengthening of north east winds unsuitability of Kal Tak for night landings it is more than probable that further forced landings will take place.

4. It is therefore suggested that the present would be a good opportunity to press the Chinese Authorities for emergency facilities to be

available at Samar for aircraft who may land there under similar circumstances.

TOO. 160800Z.

*12 10371.

CIRCULATION.

Defence Office.

Foreign Office

First Sea Lord. C.6 Tels i

AMCS(C)

S. of S. Dominions.

S. of S. Colonies. S. of S. India.

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