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899
apr
vious Paper
HONG KONG
No.
9702
(Subject.)
DOMESTI
C.O.
9702
&
REGE 18 APR 39
Chinese Jurisdiction in Kowloon
20. Mr. R. G. Webster,--To ask the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, if he is aware that there is a strong feeling amongst those who have been long acquainted with the Colony of Hong Kong, and are interested in its progress, that the non-inclusion of the city of Kowloon in the recent lease of adjacent territory from China will prove a source of great unrest to the Colony of Hong Kong, a hotbed of crime and gambling, and a most insanitary area in the midst of the Colony:
And, if steps could be taken to acquire the city of Kowloon from the Chinese Government. [Thursday 20th April.]
(Minutes.)
Mr. CHAMBERLAIN said,--As I stated on Tuesday the whole question connected with the extension of the territory of Hong-kong will require careful reconsideration in the light of recent events. As stress is laid upon the condition in the convention relating to the city of Kowloon it may remove misconception if I state that it refers only to the walled town, which is smaller than Eaton Square and contained in October last a population of 1,444, of whom 644 were soldiers who will have to be removed in any case.
Mr. R. G. WEBSTER.--Practically this small Alsatia will be swept away?
Mr. CHAMBERLAIN.--I do not think it is an Alsatia. I think the Alsatia to which the hon. member refers, if it exists at all, is in the suburbs of the city and not within the walled town.
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The city of Kowloon referred to in the Convention is described as indicated by its Chinese name Kiu diing Shing the part
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