2
COLOMBIA.
Report.
In our opinion the principle ought not to be recognized that foreigners, by registering themselves here as a Limited Company, are entitled to claim from Her Majesty's Government the protection afforded to British subjects in foreign countries.
We think that, in each case, the substance of the matter must be looked at, and the nature of the business which is being in fact carried on by the Company.
No hard and fast line can, in our judgment, be laid down as to the amount of British interest which would entitle a Company to British protection.
We advise that Messrs. Harries, Wilkinson, and Raikes should be informed that Her Majesty's Government cannot undertake in any way to protect the commercial operations or property of their clients, and that the proposed purchases must be made, if at all, entirely on their own responsibility.
Royal Courts of Justice,
December 13, 1895.
(Signed)
RICHARD E. WEBSTER. ROBERT B. FINLAY.
DRAFT.
Hongkong
Couls
0.A.G
MINUTE.
7.0 22443
1. Macuaghten 10/10
Mr Wilson
3r. Sin W. Hamilton 2.1
Mr. Cox. 21
Mr. Lucas.
Mr. Graham.
Mr. Wingfield. 24
Earl of Selborne.
Mr. Chamberlain.
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Hong Kong
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Sir,
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