48. Mr. Leslie Haleasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what are the powers of the Supreme Commander of 174W Allied Forces, Japan, with reference to British civilians resident in Japan; and what right of appeal such civilians have against any decision of the Supreme Commander.
§ Mr. Ernest DaviesThe Supreme Commander's powers are derived from the Basic Post-Surrender Policy for Japan. This accords him, within the limits of the policy decisions of the Far Eastern Commission, powers usually wielded by a sovereign Government. The same policy statement provides that in a case in which the Supreme Commander's duties towards the fulfilment of the objectives of the Occupation are in conflict with his duties towards United Nations nationals, he is, obliged to consult the representative of that national's Government "on the question of proper adjustment."