Radio message unnumbered DILI, 25 January 1942, 10.29 p.m.

Received 25 January 1942

IMMEDIATE SECRET

When we evacuate our troops from Dilli Japanese now interned must
be released and their Consul [1] will telegraph immediately full
particulars and general situation to Tokyo via Macao. My primary
duties were the promotion of good relations with Portuguese and
observation of Japanese influence here but neither are of any
value now. Portuguese have agreed to ask for assistance if the
Japanese attack, so local friendly relations or otherwise cannot
influence instructions to this effect issued by the Portuguese
Government in Lisbon to the local Governor. [2] Japanese influence
has benefited greatly owing to our violation of Portuguese
territory but it cannot increase under war conditions. Twenty-four
Japanese have been interned under bad conditions without any
international legal right and will bear personal as well as
political malice. This, together with feeling of political victory
and Latin [3] connections amongst senior Portuguese administrative
officers including military reinforcements expected from Africa,
will make official position here untenable for white British
officers and Dutch. I would appreciate early indication of your
views. [4]