My circular telegram D.391, paragraph 3. [1] Following for the
Prime Minister:-

In connection with the recent arrests of British subjects in
Japan, His Majesty's Ambassador at Tokyo recommended that we
should be prepared for retaliatory action at short notice. H.M.

Ambassador was informed in reply that we were considering the
possibility of arresting a number of suspected Japanese in British
Territory under the Defence Regulations and that it was proposed
that this should be effected quietly without any public statement,
thus leaving the way open for a settlement by exchange. In reply,
H.M. Ambassador said that he entirely agreed with the proposal for
early arrest, and immediate adoption of this measure is now being
considered.

(2) The proposals of H.M. Ambassador for subsequent action include
(a) The progressive detention of Japanese Nationals whether in
Great Britain, India, Burma or the Colonies.

(b) The delay in issue of licences on one pretext or another for
the export of vital raw materials, machinery etc. For this to be
effective, the collaboration of the Dominion Governments would be
essential. Sir Robert Craigie considers that there should be no
talk or threat of embargo -merely action, the effect of which the
Japanese would quickly sense without having actual proof of
retaliatory motive.

(c) As many difficulties and vexations as possible, short of
actual detention, should be placed in the way of Japanese
shipping.

(d) No facilities to Japanese should be granted which can
reasonably be withheld and negotiations and discussions aimed at
influencing the Japanese Government to more reasonable policies
should be continued.

(3) Before considering further the suggestion in the preceding
paragraph, His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom would be
grateful if they might receive urgently the views of the Dominion
Governments upon them.