Government
We should tell F.O. that we prefer to resort to the banishment of persons whom there is reason to suspect of complicity in the recent troubles on the ground that they are a threat to the peace and good order of the Colony; and to follow up the telegram dispatch in which, while offering explanations regarding the action of the authorities in the recent case, the Governor will be reminded of the 1895 correspondence (C.O. 2542/97) and impressed with the desirability of exercising the greatest vigilance to prevent the Colony becoming the base of conspiracy and rebellion against the Government of China.
A.F. 10/3
It is understood that the Chinese ministers have made it clear that the Chinese should be made aware, if indeed he is not already aware, that the Hongkong Government have used every effort to put a stop to any intrigue directed against the peace & security of the Canton Province, but further precautions are necessary.
A copy of the minister's letter will be sent to the Governor by the outgoing mail on Friday. I do not want to telegraph.
There is another side to these banishments. The Chinese hope by persuading the Hongkong Government to banish, to get the men into their favour, as they may be conspirators in the ordinary sense.
The Chinese believe that the administration is against them, as seen in the Harry Kennedy case.
11/3
0714/3