Following from Mr. Hard. [1]

Conclusion of alliance between Japan Germany and Italy brings
nearer possibility of hostilities in the Pacific and hence day
when it may be necessary to evacuate British subjects from Japan,
especially those of military age or having qualifications useful
to the Allied War Effort.

(2) The Embassy's evacuation scheme had envisaged Canada as the
first stop, with Honolulu as temporary reception centre for
refugees pending the arrival of shipping for onward
transportation, and discussions with Canadian and the United
States authorities to this end are proceeding. Previous intention
had been that refugees would proceed to the United Kingdom
gradually.

(3) The Embassy feel however that the Commonwealth Government
might be willing to accept some refugees from Japan for the
duration of the war (always supposing that necessary transport can
be found) and the Embassy here have asked me to inquire whether
this would be considered.

(4) Embassy feel in the event of evacuation being necessary,
Australia might be the more attractive proposition from the
refugees' point of view since they could probably find useful
employment for the duration of the war or an opening in armed
forces more easily than in Canada.

(5) Advantage from our point of view is that among British
subjects here are many who could make a useful contribution to our
war effort. Further, it can confidently be expected that after the
war most British subjects here would want to return here where
their interests lie so that they are unlikely to keep anybody out
of a job in post-war period.

(6) I would be glad of advice as to what answer I should return to
the Embassy's suggestion which is put forward very tentatively.

[2]

CRAIGIE