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be granted a special certificate or registry and obliged to
carry one certifificated European officer only.
The Chinese Engineer and Pilot might be
required to satisfy the Harbour Master of their proficiency in
their respective branches, and receive certificates.
In support of this suggestion I would
point out:-
1. That it is to the interest of shipowners them-
selves to secure the safety and efficiency of their ships by
appointing reliable European and Chinese officers.
2. That in view of the well-known dangers of naviga-
tion on this river, an experienced Chinese pilot is far more
useful than a second rate European Master or mate; he is in
fact indispensable.
3. That the present regulations bear hardly on
British shipping because they apparently do not bind other
nationalities, unless they wish to take out a passenger certifi-
cate and this, for the direct trade, is unnecessary.
4. That the presence of a European Master,
experience has shown, obviates all risk of piracy.
5. That the British companies interested in the
West River Trade are seriously considering the reopening of
their Wuchow Hongkong line with two new steamers, and that a
concession of the nature above indicated would distinctly
hasten this very desirable undertaking.
I have etc.,
(Sa.) Harry H. Fox,
Acting Consul.