is illegal and contrary to treaty and Her Majesty's Government cannot make any arrangement which would oblige British Vessels recruiting those people to run the risks which they thereby run, or imply any approval of their doings. But many such vessels carrying passengers proceed either to Hong Kong or Amoy and there take out Emigration papers, they would be relieved from the liability incurred by Her Majesty's Cruizers for violating Chinese Passenger Act-Rules.

It appears from the Papers before us that at present there is no Emigration from Ports to the South of Amoy, so that the appointment of an additional Emigration Agent at that Port would meet the case as far as Her Majesty's Government are concerned. It will be for the Foreign Office to decide whether the duties of Emigration officer can be properly devolved on the Consul. On that point I do not presume to offer an opinion.

I would submit that the instructions to be issued to Sir John Bowring should

Page 120 Page 121 18.
Share This Page