the migration to San Francisco, I believe, will be conducted in such a way that the people are fairly treated in the United States and that their families are able to hold their own. At any rate, it is certain that to prohibit the Emigration through legislation would not stop it.
As regards any question with the United States Government, I conceive that the Government would not have any difficulty in refusing to allow migration from Hongkong, even though not under contract of service, on the ground that Chinese Emigrants in that country have notoriously been much ill-used.
The only other places not in the British Dominion to which Chinese Emigrants have proceeded from Hongkong are Saigon, Bangkok, and Manila. The two former are so close to China and the population so similar that there can be no reason to prohibit the Emigration; Manila is also within a few days' sail of HongKong and its population has always been largely recruited from China. These places are included in those excepted from the full operation of the Chinese Passengers Act by the Hongkong Ordinance No. 57 of 1871.
See also Unladen's minute attached Blue [File reference: HUM23/12/17/2].
I agree with Sir C. M'Creagh's opinion that emigration, not under contract, to neighbouring places in the East should not be interfered with; but contract emigration to Peru or other countries should be prohibited. Must. Jan 3/72
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