Sir,
(Copy)
BEST
C C
2150
h232 29 JAN 05,
564
Shanghai, 3rd December, 1895
We desire the assistance of the China Association
in a matter seriously affecting British interests.
Some time last year the question of imposing
Passenger Regulations upon all British ships trading in
China, and carrying passengers between Chinese ports,
was raised by the Hong Kong Government, doubtless at the
instance of the Home Authorities, and applications were
made to the Consuls at the Treaty ports for their opinion
and advice on the subject. We believe that, almost
without exception, the opinions of the Consuls were
strongly against the enactment of any such Regulations
and the necessity for them was denied.
Notwithstanding this, we are informed that Regulations have been drafted
in Hong Kong, framed on the lines of the existing Hong
Kong Ordinances, and that it is intended to enforce them
so soon as they have received the approval of the Home
Government.
We suggest that the China Association should enter
an immediate and vigorous protest against the enactment
of these Regulations, or the imposition upon British
shipping