The Archive · 1939

H. M. Envoy Still Escorted by Police

Wears Bullet-Proof Vest Detectives Take Place of Uniformed Men

No relaxation was noticeable yesterday in the precautions being taken by the S. M. P. and the British military authorities in ensure ing the safety of Sir Archibald Clark Kerr. H. M Ambassador China, although uniformed foreign and Chinese policemen have been replaced by detectives both at the Embassy, 27 The Bund, and at the Ambassador's residence at 50 Tunsin Road Sir Archibald has been prevailed upon to wear a steel-vest whilst on his way through Shanghai streets and seemed rather hindered by the protective garb. The vest he is wearing is of the type which can stop even high velocity Mauser bullets, whilst his escort of foreign detectives wears the lighter variety.

It was also understood yesterday, although this could not be confirmed, that a new car for the Ambassador is at present being built locally and that it will be bullet-proof. It is believed that when this vehicle will be put into use the large numbers of police officers accompanying him will be considerably reduced, although an identical number of men will remain stationed both at the Embassy and at his residence.

Whilst official confirmation is lacking, it was understood yesterday that the Ambassador's life was not being directly threatened and that no intimidation had taken place, but that information has been received to the effect that an attempt on his life was being planned.

Police quarters questioned yesterday, had nothing to state beyond confirming that precautions had been taken.

Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.

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