Sir Reginald Dorman-Smith, the pre-war Governor of Burma, returns to Government House, Rangoon, after years of government-in-exile.

Fairly dark footage of troops on parade outside Government House; there is a puff of smoke as a 25-pounder gun fires a salute. The assembled troops present arms. Dorman-Smith inspects Army troops and then troops of the RAF. The guard marches away. At Rangoon docks the Dido Class cruiser HMS Cleopatra fires a salute. A motor launch comes alongside the jetty and Dorman-Smith steps ashore. He is met by the senior naval officer. He inspects a naval guard of honour. He meets Major-General Symes (commander South Burma District (Rangoon)), Major-General Rance (director Civil Affairs Service, Burma) and Burmese civil officials.

Notes

Dorman-Smith had been forced to evacuate from Rangoon in February 1942 and again from Myitkyina to India later that year, speding the war in Simla. This film therefore represents a pivotal moment, with Britain regaining the civil administration of a country lost in such embarassing circumstances in 1942, though one which would be independent in a little over two years.

Dorman-Smith would be replaced as Governor by Sir Hubert Rance, seen in this film, in August 1946.

Given the importance of these proceedings, they were extensively covered by British and Indian Army cameramen. See related items.