§ 50. Captain Marplesasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of public disquiet at the efforts of the rulers of Japan to save face with their subjects; and whether our commanders have been instructed to impress upon the Japanese of every rank and class in every way possible the fact of their defeat.
§ The Prime MinisterHis Majesty's Government are aware that the Japanese 224 Emperor's Rescript of 15th August caused much justifiable dissatisfaction both in this country and elsewhere. But in the recent session of the Japanese Diet both the Emperor and his Prime Minister publicly acknowledged the reality of Japan's defeat. As regards the second part of the Question, the measures already taken by our commanders in their respective areas show that there is no need for special instructions to them on this point.
§ Captain MarplesIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that there is grave danger in leaving the Emperor in full possession of this bogus divinity?
§ The Prime MinisterI do not think so. I think events will prove too much for that.