40
In returning the Governor's despatch
and enclosures
I am to offer the
observations for Lord Berby's
following obe
Consideration. Hong Kong is governed
in this matter of the engagement of
Seamen by the Colonial Law,
so long as that law is in force,
to be observed
as well
and so
it
/
ought
by Foreigners
as by
British Subjects, but the Permit
Fee seems to be objectionable in
principle whether levied in regard
to Foreign
or British Ships.
There may be political necessities
unknown to the Board of Trade of
which
may require the Officers of the
Government
28urg