565
shipping of any restrictions beyond those that already
affliot it. It is certain that if these Regulations
be enforced British shipping will be shut out from the
Passenger trade between Chinese ports. Competition
with other flags is already very severe, and while we are
convinced that upon equal terms British shipping is quite able to maintain the position it at present occupies, yet, if burdened with the expenses, delays and the necessary inspections, (thoroughly detested by Chinese passengers),
which will be involved in complying with the Regulations,
it is oortain that we cannot contend successfully against
vessels not subject to such vexatious drawbacks. Rates
of passage are low, but earnings from this source form a
valuable portion of the income of steamers trading in
Chinese waters, and their loss would eventually result
in our being driven out of the trade. This would only
be a question of time.
The acceptance by other Governments of such
Regulations would still leave British vessels at a great
disadvantage. We know that if imposed they would be
honestly and strictly enforced by British officials, but we
have reason to fear that they would not be so enforced
by the officials of other nationalities. What chance
would there be of getting penalties imposed on Chinese
and Japanese vessels infringing the rules? The steamers
of both Nations trading here belong to Companies more or
less
ļ